The Korean Football Association have issued a statement condemning the leaked conversation of some journalists appearing to mock South Korea captain Heung-min Son .
Football Asian revealed that some journalists were caught on the microphone mocking Son's national service, claiming that he "didn't even properly serve in the military."
Son earned an exemption from the mandatory 21-month posting following the nation's Asian Games victory in 2018, allowing him to participate in a three-month basic military training service instead. However, these comments have landed the journalists in trouble.
Photo by Ulises RUIZ / AFP via Getty Images
A statement from the KFA said: "Message of advice regarding media activities related to the South Korean national football team.
"The Korea Football Association expresses regret regarding the inappropriate remarks made by some media officials during the training of the national football team at the Guadalajara base camp for the 2026 FIFA World Cup in North America.
"With a sense of responsibility to represent South Korea on the global stage of the World Cup, the Taegeuk Warriors are doing their best to repay the support and expectations of the people. However, the recent leak of inappropriate conversations between some media officials at a training site caused great shock and disappointment to the team.
"The Korea Football Association respects the reporting activities and the role of the media. However, on-site reporting must also be conducted based on mutual respect and trust, and respect for and protection of the players must take precedence.
"In response, the Korea Football Association requests that media outlets and reporters show greater consideration and a responsible attitude toward the national team and players to prevent similar situations from recurring.
I ask the media and members of the football community to unite in support so that the South Korean national football team can showcase its best performance on the World Cup stage. The Korea Football Association will continue to prioritise the protection of the players and strive to create a healthy media environment."
