Reporters mock Son Heung-min’s military service. South Korea’s players boycott the press

South Korea has found itself at the center of a major controversy during the 2026 FIFA World Cup after players boycotted interactions with the media following the leak of remarks mocking captain Son Heung-min’s military service status. The incident caused widespread reaction in South Korea and prompted a strong response from the Korea Football Association (KFA).

The controversy stems from a training session held at South Korea’s base camp in Guadalajara, Mexico on June 7. During a live broadcast of the meeting, microphones reportedly picked up a conversation between reporters in which Son’s military exemption and leadership were mocked. The comments quickly spread on social media and were met with criticism from fans and members of the football community.

The issue is particularly sensitive in South Korea, as military service is compulsory for most men. However, Son earned an exemption from the standard service requirement after helping South Korea win the gold medal at the 2018 Asian Games. Despite the exemption, he still completed mandatory basic military training in 2020.

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In response to the leaked remarks, the South Korean players refused to engage with sections of the domestic media and rallied behind their captain. Reports from Guadalajara indicated that tensions between the squad and journalists had escalated significantly, with the team taking steps to restrict media access following the incident.

KOREA SOCCER EXPRESSES SHOCK

The KFA subsequently issued a statement expressing regret for the “inappropriate remarks” made by some media personnel. The governing body said the comments had caused “great shock and disappointment” within the squad and stressed that respect for the players must be paramount in all reporting activities. The association also called on the media to show more responsibility and consideration towards the national team. Courtesy: Korea Football Association

“The Korea Football Association respects reporting activities and the role of the media. However, on-the-spot reporting must also be conducted on the basis of mutual respect and trust, and the respect and protection of the players must take precedence,” the statement said.

“In response, the Korea Football Association requests that the media and reporters show more consideration and a responsible attitude towards the national team and players to prevent similar situations from happening again,” the statement added.

The controversy has overshadowed what has been an otherwise positive start to South Korea’s World Cup campaign. Hong Myung-bo’s team opened their tournament with a 2-1 comeback victory over the Czech Republic and currently sit among the top teams in Group A. However, the focus has shifted away from football to the growing rift between the national team and sections of the South Korean media.

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Issued by:

sabyasachi chowdhury

Published on:

16 Jun 2026 21:40 IST