South Korean national football team captain Son Heung-min returned to Incheon International Airport on July 1, 2026, following the team's World Cup elimination [1].
The return marks a tense moment for the squad after failing to advance past the group stage of the North America-Central America World Cup. The event is underscored by public debate regarding the team's management and the unexpected tactical decisions made during the tournament.
Son arrived at the airport one day after coach Hong Myung-bo [1]. He was accompanied by teammates Lee Jae-sung and Kim Seung-kyu as they faced crowds of supporters gathered to meet the returning players [1], [2].
Upon his arrival, Son briefly addressed the crowd and said, “죄송합니다” (“I’m sorry”) [1]. The apology comes amid significant controversy surrounding the team's final group-stage match against South Africa. During that critical game, Son was omitted from the starting lineup, a decision that sparked widespread debate among fans and analysts [2].
Despite the apology from the captain, public sentiment in South Korea has largely shifted away from blaming the athletes. Much of the prevailing narrative suggests the players were not at fault for the team's exit from the competition [1], [2].
Supporters at the airport maintained a supportive atmosphere as the players exited the terminal. The contrast between the captain's sense of responsibility and the public's forgiveness highlights the emotional weight of the tournament's conclusion for the national team [1].
““죄송합니다” (“I’m sorry）”
The disparity between Son Heung-min's apology and the public's lack of blame suggests a growing frustration with the coaching staff rather than the players. By omitting the team's most prominent star from the starting lineup in a decisive match, the management has become the primary target of criticism, effectively shielding the players from the typical backlash following a World Cup disappointment.
