Chung Mong-kyu Resigns as KFA President After 13 Years

Chung Mong-kyu has stepped down as president of the Korea Football Association (KFA).

The KFA announced on the morning of July 6 that Chung submitted his resignation after a board meeting at Korea Football Park in Cheonan, South Chungcheong Province. Having been elected as the 52nd president of the KFA in January 2013, Chung's departure marks the end of his 13 years and 5 months in office.

Initially, it was expected that Chung would resign after the conclusion of the 2026 FIFA World Cup in North and Central America. However, his sudden resignation during the tournament is seen as a move to address ongoing conflicts and controversies surrounding the association and to expedite its normalization.

In his farewell remarks, Chung stated, "During my time as president of the KFA, I have strived for the development of Korean football, but at times I met expectations and at other times I caused deep disappointment."

He added, "The achievements I have made are thanks to the players and fans, and all shortcomings and mistakes are solely my responsibility. I will now step down and return as a football fan to support Korean football."

Following Chung's resignation, the KFA will enter an emergency management phase in accordance with its bylaws. One of the vice presidents will assume the role of acting president with the approval of the Korea Sports Council, and the association plans to prepare for the election process to select the next president.