[Anchor]

Ji So-yun, a prominent star of the South Korean women's national football team who recently heard sexually harassing remarks from a referee, has once again voiced her condemnation of the incident. She also pointed out that the referee's apology felt closer to an excuse, urging for respect and consideration.

Reporter Ha Seong-nyong has the details.

[Reporter]

Ji So-yun, who recently brought to light the sexually harassing remarks made by a referee during a WK League match, did not shy away from questions regarding the incident on the first day of the national team's gathering.

She expressed her discomfort, particularly regarding the referee's visit to her club to offer an apology.

[Ji So-yun / Midfielder, Women's National Football Team: I can't really say that I received an apology. I felt like it was more of an explanation, which made my heart feel even heavier.]

At the time, the referee explained that the remark was not directed at Ji. However, Ji, who also serves as the president of the Korea Pro-Footballers Association, directly criticized that regardless of who it was aimed at, it was a clearly inappropriate remark.

[Ji So-yun / Midfielder, Women's National Football Team: If a young player had heard those words on the pitch, she probably wouldn't have been able to say anything. I hope this incident doesn't just end with one person's mistake, but serves as an opportunity for a mindset of mutual respect and consideration to grow between referees and players.]

She added that it is now time to focus on the Asian Games, taking the lead in creating a bright atmosphere for the team.

After setting the record as the youngest A-match goalscorer at the 2006 Doha Asian Games at the age of 15, and winning only bronze medals in three consecutive tournaments starting from 2010, Ji has set her sights higher for what is expected to be her final Asian Games.

[Ji So-yun / Midfielder, Women's National Football Team: For my last time, I really have a strong desire to change the color of the medal.]

The final group stage match against North Korea is expected to be the turning point.

[Ji So-yun / Midfielder, Women's National Football Team: We have to climb the mountain that is North Korea, and it's going to be a battle of mental strength.]

The national team will depart in three days to prepare for their opening match against Myanmar.

(Video Journalist: Hwang In-seok, Video Editor: Ha Seong-won, Design: Kim Ye-ji, Video Source: YouTube 'Korea Women's Football Federation')