Kang Boo-ja Criticizes Hong Myung-bo: 'He Should Have Apologized with Tears to Earn Forgiveness'

Actress Kang Boo-ja shared her honest views regarding the attitude of former South Korean national football team coach Hong Myung-bo upon his return to Korea after the 2026 North America World Cup.

Appearing on the web variety show 'Kang Rich's World Cup Tactics' on the YouTube channel 'Cheongja Mansion' released on the 3rd, Kang Boo-ja reflected on the 2026 North America World Cup and mentioned Hong Myung-bo's appearance during his arrival back home.

Known as a football fan for over 50 years, Kang Boo-ja stated, "When the doors opened at the airport arrival hall, if former coach Hong Myung-bo had bowed his head and shed even a few tears, I think the people would have forgiven him much more."

Recalling the scene of his arrival, she added, "I remember how Jo Hyeon-woo followed behind, while former coach Hong Myung-bo walked out looking only straight ahead without bowing his head even once. I felt a sense of regret, thinking it would have been better if a more sincere heart had been conveyed."

Kang Boo-ja could not hide her sorrow, especially mentioning the inspiration Hong Myung-bo provided to the nation during his playing days.

She said, "When I hear the name Hong Myung-bo, the first thing that comes to mind is the scene where he successfully completed the final penalty kick in the quarterfinal match against Spain during the 2002 Korea-Japan World Cup. It breaks my heart that a person remembered as a national hero is now facing such heavy criticism."

The South Korean national football team led by former coach Hong Myung-bo recorded 1 win and 2 losses in the group stage of the 2026 North America World Cup, finishing 3rd in Group A. Failing to meet the criteria for advancing among the third-place teams, they failed to reach the Round of 16, and following the conclusion of the tournament, former coach Hong Myung-bo stepped down from his position as the team's leader.