Son Heung-min boycotts South Korean media after leaked derogatory remarks
South Korea captain Son Heung-min has initiated a media boycott at the 2026 World Cup after footage leaked of reporters making derogatory comments about his military exemption.
The 33-year-old LAFC forward declined to speak to his nation’s press following a 2-1 opening victory against Czechia.
His teammates have shown solidarity by joining the blackout, causing significant friction between the squad and the travelling press pack in Mexico.
Leaked training ground footage
The controversy stems from an accidentally published video recorded during a training session at the team’s Guadalajara base camp.
In the footage, two reporters were allegedly heard mocking the former Tottenham Hotspur star’s legal exemption from South Korea’s mandatory 21-month military service.
The veteran attacker earned that legal exemption after leading his nation to tournament gold in 2018.
The Korea Football Association has firmly condemned the incident, expressing its profound disappointment with the media personnel involved.
“The Korea Football Association expresses regret over the inappropriate remarks made by some media personnel during the national football team’s training at the Guadalajara base camp.”
“The recent leak of inappropriate conversations between some media officials at a training site caused great shock and disappointment to the team.”
Apology and ongoing tensions
The ex-Premier League star has reportedly received and accepted a face-to-face apology from members of the South Korean press delegation.
Consequently, the previous leader of the press delegation has resigned over the escalating row.
Despite the apology, the national team has yet to confirm whether they will end their media blackout ahead of their next Group Stage fixture.
Tensions within the camp have been further exacerbated by separate critical comments directed at manager Hong Myung-bo.
South Korea’s crucial victory over Czechia has placed the Taegeuk Warriors in a commanding position to reach the Round of 32 in the expanded tournament format.
