Seoul, August 8, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
The Korea Football Association (KFA) on Saturday apologised over allegations that sexual entertainment was arranged for foreign referees and match officials before and after international matches held in South Korea in 2011 and 2012.
The controversy has added to mounting scrutiny of the KFA following South Korea’s early exit from the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Local media reports recently alleged that the association had arranged such entertainment for foreign referees and match officials during several World Cup and Olympic qualifiers and international friendly matches in 2011 and 2012, Xinhua reported.
In a statement, the KFA said it was “deeply sorry” for the disappointment and concern caused by a parliamentary hearing, a police raid on its headquarters and media reports concerning alleged irregularities dating back more than a decade.
The association maintained that there are currently no such improper practices or use of corporate cards and pledged comprehensive reforms aimed at strengthening transparency and ethical standards and restoring public confidence.
The KFA has also been under scrutiny over the appointment of former South Korea head coach Hong Myung-bo. Police raided the association’s headquarters earlier this week as part of an investigation into alleged irregularities surrounding the 2024 appointment process.
A parliamentary hearing was held last month to question former KFA president Chung Mong-gyu and Hong over the management of the national team and the association’s operations.
Chung resigned as KFA president a few weeks ago following criticism surrounding South Korea’s World Cup campaign. Hong also departed as head coach after the team failed to advance to the knockout stage, finishing third in Group A with three points. South Korea defeated the Czech Republic but suffered defeats against Mexico and South Africa.
While announcing his resignation, Chung acknowledged both the achievements and shortcomings of his tenure.
South Korea remains one of Asia’s leading football nations. Its greatest World Cup run came in 2002, when it co-hosted the tournament with Japan and reached the semi-finals before losing to Germany. Germany subsequently lost the final to Brazil.
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