Several South Korean footballers were in hot water over the weekend for their comments about receiving military exemption after clinching gold at the 2026 Asian Games.
The comments came after they defeated hosts Japan 1-0 in the men’s final, giving South Korea its fourth Games title in a row.
According to Chosun, the comments drew much ire from South Korean netizens, who criticised the players online.
This eventually prompted apologies from the players as well as the Korea Football Association.
In South Korea, all men must complete mandatory military service before the age of 28. The only ways to be exempt from this are either to have a health condition or to win a gold at the Olympics or the Asian Games.
In the latter case, the two years of mandatory service will instead be reduced to weeks of training.
Following the victory on 3 Oct, several South Korean footballers commented on being exempted from military service.
“I don’t think the medal or the trophy mattered at all,” said 20-year-old Yang Min-hyeok.
“The real reward for us is the military exemption, so I think we played with only that in mind.”
Source: Chosun
The team’s captain also boasted about the exemption. At a press conference, 26-year-old Lee Gi-hyuk held up his medal and stated that he would not be going to the military.
However, the following day, Lee apologised for his actions.
Source: Chosun
According to The Korea Times, he said on Instagram that he was caught up in the happiness of the moment. His account is currently set to private.
On 4 Oct, the Korea Football Association (KFA) also apologised for the controversy.
“We deeply apologise for the disappointment and hurt caused to the public and active-duty soldiers due to the reckless remarks and interviews by some players,” it said.
KFA also promised to strengthen player ethics and etiquette.
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Featured image adapted from Chosun.