India, June 29 -- South Korea's 2026 FIFA World Cup journey came to an early end after the team failed to progress beyond the group stage. Instead of a dramatic knockout defeat, their campaign concluded with just three points from the group phase, capped by a 1-0 loss to South Africa that confirmed their elimination.

The disappointing exit quickly sparked major developments off the pitch. Head coach Hong Myung-bo stepped down on June 28, accepting full responsibility for the team's performance. Soon after, Lee Jae Myung said he was "utterly baffled" by the outcome and called for an official government investigation into the national team's World Cup campaign.

South Korea's World Cup Exit Triggers Hong Myung-bo Resignation

Hong Myung-bo...