South Korea crisis deepens over sexual favours for referees scandal

The South Korean football association (KFA) has apologized for various controversies, including a scandal involving alleged sexual favours paid to foreign referees for sexual entertainment at massage parlours in the early 2010s. A report by South Korea's ministry of culture, sport and tourism found that payments totaling 5.6 million won (£2,927) were made using KFA credit cards for these expenses.

The allegations concerned referees who officiated matches for South Korea's national team during qualifying rounds for the 2014 World Cup and the 2012 Olympic Games. The KFA staff had reported the expenses under false pretences, claiming the money was spent on food, drink, or massages. The KFA issued a statement of apologies, stating that such improper conduct is not occurring at the association currently.

Both KFA manager Hong Myung-bo and president Chung Mong-gyu resigned earlier this summer due to public anger over South Korea's poor performance at the 2022 World Cup. Police are currently investigating an alleged obstruction of business concerning Hong's appointment as manager, which could be expanded to include the sexual favours allegations, as the statute of limitations for many crimes in South Korea is 15 years.

The head coach position remains vacant, and new presidential elections for the KFA are set to take place before the end of the year, with expanded voting eligibility.