Riot police deployed at airport after World Cup manager receives death threats

WorldFootball
29 Jun 2026 • 11:36 PM MYT
GB News US
GB News US

British news channel offering news, opinion, and debate for the UK

Riot police have been ordered to airport arrivals for South Korean boss Hong Myung-bo after he was targeted with death threats following his side's woeful performance at the World Cup.

South Korea were eliminated in Group A after being dealt a relatively easy draw against co-hosts Mexico, South Africa and the Czech Republic.

Major security measures had to be set up at the airport for the arrival of the South Korean team and staff.

The Incheon Metropolitan Police Agency announced that 160 riot and airport police will be deployed in case of any violence.

Image from: Riot police deployed at airport after World Cup manager receives death threats
South Korean boss Hong Myung-bo has received death threats after his side's terrible World Cup | Source: REUTERS

Twenty-five security guards have also been sent to support the personnel.

A police statement 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."

South Korea only won their opening match 2-1 against the Czech Republic, but after a couple of defeats to Mexico and South Africa, they did not do enough to qualify through the third-place route.

Image from: Riot police deployed at airport after World Cup manager receives death threats
South Korea finished third in Group A, after losing two games to Mexico and South Africa | Source: REUTERS

South Korea have dropped seven places in the world rankings following their poor performance.

Myung-Bo stated he is "genuinely very sorry" for the performance and resigned as the nation's head coach.

In his resignation announcement, he 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.

Image from: Riot police deployed at airport after World Cup manager receives death threats
South Korea have dropped down the world rankings after their poor performance | Source: REUTERS

"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."

South Korea's president Lee Jae-Myung labelled the coach as "incapable", ordering a complete review of the national team programme.

He said: "As a former honorary professional football club chairman and, at heart, a member of the Red Devils, I feel not just surprise but deep bewilderment at this unexpected result.

Image from: Riot police deployed at airport after World Cup manager receives death threats
Myung-Bo said he is 'very sorry' for the poor performance | Source: REUTERS

"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."

Lee told the national Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism to take action, saying: "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."

Win two tickets to a FIFA World Cup 2026 quarter-final. ExpressVPN are giving one lucky Friend or Member the chance to experience football's biggest tournament live, with flights and accommodation covered by GB News. Entries close 30 June. ENTER HERE.

Our Standards: The GB News Editorial Charter

Newswav Malaysia Best News App

Newswav is an online content aggregator and obtains its content from different online sources. The content in the app do not belong to Newswav nor do they reflect the opinions of Newswav and its staff. Your use of this app indicates your understanding and acceptance of this information.

Newswav Sdn. Bhd. (201701008480 (1222645-M)) 2026 All Rights Reserved