South Korea eliminated, Myung-bo resigns after World Cup exit

South Korea out of the World Cup, Hong Myung-bo resigns

It is over. South Korea eliminated in the first round of the 2026 World Cup, and manager Hong Myung-bo has stepped down (1). The group stage was grim: a 1–0 loss to Mexico, a defeat to the Czech Republic, and a must-win finale that did not go your way.

The squad returned to Incheon airport to a hostile reception. Chants of "go to hell" rang out as players and staff walked through (1). The anger is real. Min-Jae Kim's mistake against Mexico, the misfiring attack, the tactical vulnerability, it all caught up.

Japan push Brazil but exit too

Japan are out as well. Brazil 2–1 Japan in the last 32, and it stings because they made Brazil work (2). Mitoma, Endo, Minamino, Kubo, names that belong on this stage, came close but not close enough. No Asian team has advanced deep this tournament, and Japan were the best hope.

A dismal World Cup for Asia (2). South Korea fans will feel that line.