Concerns about internal discord and leadership issues within South Korea's national soccer team were raised during a National Assembly audit. The Korea Football Association (KFA) faced criticism for its passive response to conflicts among players.
On October 21, during a National Assembly Culture, Sports and Tourism Committee audit, lawmaker Jeong Yeon-wook questioned Lee Yong-soo, acting president of the KFA, about recent reports of discord within the national team.
Jeong asked Lee, "Are you aware that national team players are referring to Son Heung-min (LAFC) not by name, but as 'number 7' or 'that person'?" He expressed concern that the team dynamics had become so strained that players were uncomfortable mentioning each other's names.
Jeong also referenced comments made by Kim Min-jae (Bayern Munich) and Hwang In-beom (FC Porto) following a friendly match against Venezuela on October 2. Kim noted, "The defenders were pitiful," criticizing the forwards for their lack of defensive support, while Hwang remarked, "After nine years with the national team, there hasn't been much change in various areas," highlighting leadership issues within the squad.
Additionally, Jeong addressed the recent controversy surrounding the potential retirement of players born in 1996, including Kim Min-jae, Hwang In-beom, and Hwang Hee-chan (FC Schalke 04), who had reportedly expressed their retirement intentions to some teammates.
In response, Lee stated, "I received a brief report on the matter," and emphasized that issues arising in the locker room should be resolved internally, indicating that discussions would continue within the team.
Jeong criticized the KFA's handling of the situation, stating, "The public has every right to question what role the KFA plays in managing the national team and why conflicts and discord continue to arise. There is fundamental skepticism about whether any coach can restore the leadership of a team that has fallen apart."
Lee expressed hope for an improvement in team morale, stating, "I hope the national team can come together more as we prepare for the November A-match and the Asian Cup under interim coach Roberto Moreno, and that we can gradually improve."
* This article has been translated by AI.
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