Lee Im-sang, the former technical director of the Korea Football Association, has refuted allegations that he led the appointment of Hong Myung-bo as the national team coach, revealing specific instructions from former KFA Chairman Jung Mong-kyu.
According to a report by Yonhap News on August 8, Lee detailed the process of Hong's appointment in a recent application to participate in a lawsuit submitted to the Seoul High Court. This marks the first time Lee, a key figure in the investigation into potential undue influence in the appointment process, has publicly clarified the facts.
Lee claimed that after Jeong Hae-sung, the then-chairman of the National Team Strengthening Committee, went out of contact in 2024, he took over the responsibility for selecting the national team coach. At that time, Jeong had already reported that Hong was among the final three candidates.
According to Lee, Jung instructed him to “review all candidates, including Hong, without prejudice” and to “negotiate thoroughly so that we can contract with anyone.” He also conveyed a message expressing trust in Lee's judgment for Korean football.
In response, Lee decided that he needed to meet with Hong, along with Gus Poyet and David Wagner. With the help of then-Vice Chairman Choi Young-il, they held what has been referred to as the 'bakery meeting' near Hong's home. Lee interpreted Jung's directive to create conditions for contracting with anyone as a mandate to meet with the candidates.
After Hong expressed his willingness to take the national team coach position, pending approval from his club, Lee reported this to Jung. Jung reportedly responded, “Then go with Hong Myung-bo. Discuss the details with Vice Chairman Kim Jeong-bae.”
The Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism has determined that Lee acted beyond his authority in recommending a coach. However, Lee's side argues that he was merely following orders from the leadership to negotiate with the candidates selected by the Strengthening Committee.
Police are currently investigating whether Jung and Lee improperly influenced the appointment of Hong. On August 5, they questioned Hong as a suspect and conducted searches of the KFA offices to gather related materials.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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