Seoul: South Korean national football players have taken a stand by boycotting interviews with their home media following a controversy involving their captain, Son Heung-min.
According to Thai News Agency, this collective action by the players came after a video surfaced online showing two South Korean reporters mocking Son Heung-min over his exemption from mandatory military service. The video has sparked significant backlash, leading to Son's decision to abstain from speaking to South Korean media following the team's 2-1 victory against the Czech Republic in their 2026 World Cup Group A opening match on June 11th. Instead, Son opted to walk through the mixed zone quietly and engaged with the international press only.
In a show of unity, Son's teammates also refused to grant interviews to South Korean media, standing in solidarity with the LAFC striker. The South Korean Football Association (KFA) responded to the incident by issuing a statement condemning the behavior of the two journalists. The association emphasized the importance of respectful and professional conduct in media interactions.