FIFA World Cup 2026 – Disparaging comments from Son cause division between South Korea and the domestic media

South Korea’s preparations for Thursday’s World Cup match against Mexico were overshadowed by a rift between players and domestic media after disparaging comments about captain Son Heung-min were caught on camera.

The Korean Football Association said it “deplored the inappropriate comments made by some media workers during the national football team’s training at Guadalajara base camp.” The organization added that the comments caused «great shock and disappointment» within the team.

The incident took place during an open training session on June 7, days before South Korea opened its World Cup campaign with a 2-1 win over the Czech Republic.

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Son, 33, who was running with teammates, was mocked by unidentified media personnel for his military record in footage recorded by the broadcaster. JTBCSouth Korea’s official title holder of the tournament. The video was later leaked, sparking strong reactions on social media.

By helping South Korea win gold at the 2018 Asian Games, Son was exempted from the mandatory 21-month military service required for able-bodied men.

Son later completed alternative duties, including three weeks of military training in 2020 and community service.

The federation said in the statement on Monday that it will “continue to prioritize the protection of the team and strive to create a healthy media environment.”

According to local reports, South Korean players have since refrained from speaking to domestic media outside of official World Cup commitments – and planned interviews with players have been cancelled.

The KFA did not immediately respond to an Associated Press request for comment.

Son, who left Tottenham for Los Angeles FC a year ago, missed chances in the win over the Czech Republic, with Hwang In-beom and Oh Hyeon-gyu scoring in Guadalajara.

South Korea will play again in Guadalajara when they face Mexico in the second round of Group A matches on Thursday evening local time.

Published on June 16, 2026