South Korean football fans gathered at Incheon International Airport early Wednesday to greet captain Son Heung-min following the team's return from the World Cup.
The reception highlighted a sharp divide in public sentiment toward the national team's leadership. While players received support, the coaching staff faced significant criticism for the team's performance on the world stage.
Supporters waited in the airport arrival hall until 2 a.m. [1] to welcome the players. The atmosphere shifted between cheers for Son and boos directed at coach Hong Myung-bo [1]. Many fans expressed that the team's struggles were the result of tactical failures by the coach rather than a lack of effort from the players [1].
Son appeared apologetic during the encounter. "I am sorry," Son said [2].
Fans responded by encouraging the captain to move past the disappointment. Kim Seong-jin, a football fan, said he wanted to tell Son that he worked very hard and was deeply appreciated, adding that Son did not need to feel sorry [2].
The contrast in the crowd's reaction underscores the pressure currently facing the coaching staff. While Son remains a symbol of national pride and effort, the tactical direction of the team has become a focal point of fan dissatisfaction, leading to the vocal protests witnessed at the airport [1].
“"I am sorry," Son said.”
The disparity in treatment between Son Heung-min and coach Hong Myung-bo indicates that the South Korean public distinguishes between individual player effort and systemic coaching failures. By shielding the star players from criticism and directing it toward the manager, fans are signaling a demand for a tactical overhaul of the national team's strategy rather than a change in personnel.
