South Korea’s players have stepped back from media duties at the 2026 FIFA World Cup after alleged comments mocking captain Son Heung-min’s military service background surfaced.
The remarks were reportedly caught on a hot microphone during a training session at the team’s Guadalajara base camp, where members of the media allegedly made comments about Son’s military service background.
The incident quickly drew backlash, prompting players to show their support for their captain.
Son’s military status has long been a sensitive issue in South Korea, where mandatory service remains an important national responsibility.
Most able-bodied men are required to serve, but Son received an exemption after helping South Korea win the gold medal in the 2018 Asian Games — an achievement recognized under the country’s exemption rules.
Despite the exemption, Son still completed basic military training in 2020. Because of the significance of military service in South Korean society, discussions involving exemptions often generate strong public reactions.
Following the controversy, South Korea’s players chose to limit their participation in non-mandatory media engagements with certain domestic media outlets, standing together in support of their captain.
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The Korea Football Association (KFA) later condemned the remarks and stressed the importance of professionalism and respect when covering the national team.
“The Korea Football Association expresses regret over the inappropriate remarks made by some media personnel during the national football team’s training at the Guadalajara base camp,” the KFA said in a statement.
The federation also urged media members to show “greater consideration and a responsible attitude” toward the squad.
“The Korea Football Association will continue to prioritise the protection of the squad and strive to create a healthy media environment,” it added.
The players’ decision does not exempt them from FIFA-mandated obligations, as the squad will still be required to participate in official media activities throughout the tournament.
With their focus now returning to the competition, the incident has become a moment of unity for South Korea as the team continues its World Cup campaign with Son at the center of the squad.
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