South Korea coach resigns following early World Cup exit

South Korea coach Hong Myung‑bo resigned on Sunday, a day after the national team was eliminated in the group stage of the World Cup, according to reports.

The 57‑year‑old former captain, who is in his second spell as manager, has seen the team exit the World Cup early for a second time, following a similar outcome in 2014.

South Korea were anticipated to advance from Group A, which also featured co‑hosts Mexico, South Africa and the Czech Republic.

However, the team lost 1‑0 to South Africa and Mexico, ending the group with three points after a 2‑1 victory over the Czech Republic.

They remained in contention for a place in the knockout stage as one of the eight best third‑placed teams.

The possibility was eliminated on Saturday when other group results made qualification impossible; Hong accepted responsibility on Sunday and resigned, Yonhap News Agency reported.

bur-pst/nf