From heavy criticism to death threats: South Korea's team ridiculed

South Korea’s team faced an extreme backlash after its World Cup exit, with reports of death threats following a loss to South Africa. After departing Mexico, the South Korean national squad arrived at Incheon International Airport and was met by mass criticism from fans both online and in person. The article cites the Incheon Metropolitan Police Agency confirming it dispatched 160 riot and airport police officers after threats were made against recently resigned coach Hong Myung-bo’s life. Viewers also criticized the hostility as lacking sportsmanship. The goalkeeper Kim Seung-gyu’s wife, Kim Jin Kyung, reportedly disabled video comments after online abuse connected to the tournament. Captain Son Heung-min apologized for the 1-0 defeat and urged supporters to encourage rather than attack the team.