Korean football needs reckoning, not another apology

The Korea Football Association has once again issued an apology, following a series of setbacks in their 2026 World Cup journey. This isn't the first time the KFA has issued an apology, as they have faced parliamentary hearings, a police search of their headquarters, and renewed scrutiny over past allegations. In response to these events, the KFA has promised "deep self-reflection," greater transparency, and sweeping reforms.

However, while these measures are a necessary step, they are not enough to restore public trust in the organization. The latest crisis cannot be simply attributed to a poor World Cup performance or the controversial appointment of a national team coach. Police are currently investigating allegations of improper interference in the 2024 appointment of Hong Myung-bo, and the KFA's handling of the process has already faced significant criticism.

The sports ministry had previously found that the association had breached its own procedures in appointing both Hong Myung-bo and his predecessor, Jurgen Klinsmann, although they did not conclude that the appointments were illegal. This distinction is crucial. The KFA's actions and responses to these issues must go beyond mere apologies and instead lead to a thorough investigation and reform to regain public confidence.