Police give statement as 160 riot police deployed for South Korea return from disastrous World Cup

South Korea are to be given extra police protection when they return from the World Cup.

The Taeguk Warriors are heading home early after crashing out in the group stage in North America.

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Their poor performance has been met with a lot of anger and it’s understoof 160 airport and riot police will be deployed for the national team’s return on Tuesday, when they will touch down at Incheon International Airport near the South Korean capital, Seoul.

A statement from the Incheon Metropolitan Police Agency read: “We have decided to deploy officers to prevent safety accidents that may occur during the entry process. We will respond strictly to any illegal acts, including the throwing of objects.”

Hong steps down amid extreme reaction

Having begun their campaign by coming from behind to beat Czechia 2-1, they lost 1-0 to co-hosts Mexico and then South Africa, exiting the tournament at the first hurdle for the third time in four editions.

And some South Korea fans have reacted particularly badly to their team’s elimination, with death threats aimed at now ex-manager Hong Myung-bo.

One of South Korea’s greatest-ever players, Hong earned 136 caps and starred in their run to the World Cup semi-finals as co-hosts in 2002 – before having two spells in charge of the national team.

Nonetheless, he came in for intense criticism from supporters and the media alike, resigning in disgrace.

In astonishing scenes, Hong’s face was blurred out by South Korean broadcaster KBS as he spoke to the press.

Announcing his resignation with an apology to the fans, Hong said: “To all of the Korean people who love and support our national team, I would like to genuinely apologise. Today, I’d like to announce that I will step down as the national team head coach.

“As the head coach, no explanation can supersede the ultimate result. I could not bring the result that our people had expected. All responsibilities are with me.

“Today, I step down as the national team head coach. However, my heart for Korean football will remain the same. I will now support Korea national team to regain the trust and love of our people.”

Hong labelled ‘incapable’ by national leader

Hong hasn’t even been able to escape criticism from the most senior figures in the country, with president Lee Jae Myung branding him ‘incapable’.

Lee said: “As a former honorary professional football club chairman and, at heart, a member of the Red Devils [the official South Korea supporters club], I feel not just surprise but deep bewilderment at this unexpected result.”

“Once again, it has been proven that personnel decisions determine everything. If loyalty and factionalism are valued over competence and an incapable person is appointed as a leader, the outcome is as predictable as fire.

“I sincerely apologise to the public for the deep disappointment caused by this absurd situation. We will move swiftly to reform sports administration to ensure this does not happen again.”

South Korea will no doubt want to make a swift appointment as they search for Hong’s successor.

They have another major tournament coming up in just over six months’ time: the 2027 AFC Asian Cup in Saudi Arabia.