Seoul police have raided the Korea Football Association (KFA) offices as part of an "obstruction of business" investigation. The focus of the inquiry is the appointment of former coach Hong Myung-bo.
Hong resigned following South Korea's exit from the 2026 World Cup group stage. President Lee Jae Myung branded Hong "incapable" and ordered a review of the national team programme.
Hong, 57, returned for his second spell as manager in 2024. This appointment drew scrutiny after the KFA reportedly abandoned a search for foreign candidates and hired him after a brief meeting. The sports ministry stated in October 2024 that the KFA breached its own rules in Hong's appointment, finding that a technical director's meeting did not constitute a proper interview. However, no evidence of illegal conduct was found at that time, and Hong's contract was not ordered to be cancelled.
Police were already investigating complaints of alleged improper interference in Hong's appointment prior to the World Cup. No criminal findings have been announced against Hong or KFA officials.