South Korea’s national football association has apologised after a media report alleged that foreign referees were provided with inappropriate entertainment, including alleged sexual services, during visits to the country more than a decade ago.
The Korea Football Association (KFA) issued the apology on Saturday following a report by South Korean broadcaster JTBC, which detailed allegations dating back to 2011 and 2012.
Allegations Date Back to 2011 and 2012
According to JTBC, the KFA allegedly provided inappropriate entertainment to foreign referees on several occasions during 2011 and 2012.
The reported incidents included visits by referees who were in South Korea for international fixtures, including 2014 World Cup qualifying matches and the 2012 London Olympics.
The KFA said it regretted the concerns raised by reports about events from more than a decade ago, noting that many people currently working within the organisation were unaware of the incidents.
Previous Government Investigation Cited
JTBC’s report cited a 2016 investigation by South Korea’s sports ministry, which reportedly found that the KFA had provided inappropriate entertainment to foreign referees on seven occasions between March 2011 and March 2012.
The investigation reportedly included allegations involving visits to massage parlours where expenses allegedly covered sexual services.
The KFA did not immediately respond to requests for further details regarding the allegations.
KFA Says Such Conduct Is Not Happening Today
In its statement, the football association stressed that conduct of this nature is not currently taking place.
The KFA also said the use of corporate cards for such purposes is not part of its present operations.
The allegations have nevertheless added to growing scrutiny surrounding the organisation and its governance.
KFA Faces Separate Investigation Over Coach Appointment
The latest controversy comes as the KFA is already facing scrutiny over the appointment of Hong Myung-bo as South Korea’s national team coach.
Seoul police reportedly raided the association’s offices on Thursday as part of an investigation connected to Hong’s appointment.
Hong returned to the national team role in 2024 after previously managing South Korea from 2013 to 2014.
Hong Myung-bo Appointment Under Scrutiny
Hong’s return generated criticism after the KFA ended a lengthy search that had included foreign coaching candidates before selecting the former national team captain following a brief meeting.
The appointment has remained controversial, particularly amid criticism of the association’s decision-making processes.
Football Association Under Growing Pressure
The latest allegations add another layer of pressure on the KFA as it faces questions over its past conduct and internal governance.
The scrutiny has also intensified following South Korea’s disappointing performance at the World Cup, where the national team exited during the group stage.
The association’s response to the historical allegations is likely to face further attention as authorities and the public continue to examine its past and present practices.