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From 'No Entry' Signs to Death Threats: Backlash Against Hong Myung-bo Intensifies

Published : Jun 29, 2026 11:09 AM

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The South Korean national football team has failed to advance to the Round of 32 following the final outcome of the World Cup group stage.

As head coach Hong Myung-bo announced his voluntary resignation to take responsibility, public criticism has reached an extreme level.

This is a restaurant in Anyang, Gyeonggi Province.

A sign reading "Hong Myung-bo is not allowed to enter" is posted on the door.

It is reported that this sign was put up to express disappointment with the World Cup results following the match against South Africa.

This is not the only place.

Photos of a convenience store with a "Hong Myung-bo not allowed" sign and a city bus with a message saying "Hong Myung-bo not allowed to board" are also spreading online.

Furthermore, a user on an online community, claiming to be a 40-year-old U.S. citizen, even posted a threat to kill coach Hong at Incheon International Airport on the day of his return.

The police plan to track down the author of the post on charges including intimidation and will remain on high alert to prevent any unexpected incidents during coach Hong's return to the country.

(Photo: X, Online Community)