KFA President Chung Mong-gyu Announces Resignation After World Cup

(CNA, Seoul, May 29) Chung Mong-gyu, president of the Korea Football Association (KFA), who has led the country's football development for the past 13 years, announced today that he will resign after the conclusion of the current World Cup, following various controversies and criticism. According to AFP, Chung was first elected KFA president in 2013 and has since served four consecutive terms. However, he faced severe backlash for attempting to pardon former players banned for life due to match-fixing allegations. Chung was also accused of hiring German legend Jurgen Klinsmann as the national team coach in 2023 without following standard selection procedures. In his statement, Chung said, "I am deeply aware of the controversies and criticisms during my time managing the association. I feel deeply ashamed and take full responsibility." He added, "I have decided to resign as KFA president after this World Cup concludes." Chung noted, "As president, I will fulfill my duties by supporting the national team to achieve good results in the World Cup." South Korea is in Group A for this tournament, alongside South Africa, the Czech Republic, and Mexico.