KFA vows reforms after accusations of sexual entertainment for officials

Seoul, August 8 – The Korea Football Association (KFA) issued an apology on Saturday after reports alleged that the federation organized sexual entertainment for foreign referees and match officials during international fixtures held in 2011 and 2012. The allegations, reported by local outlets, claim that such arrangements were made before and after World Cup and Olympic qualifying matches as well as friendly games.

KFA representatives described the accusations as "extremely embarrassing" and expressed sincere regret for the harm caused to the sport’s reputation. They referenced a series of parliamentary hearings, police raids on the federation’s headquarters, and intense media scrutiny that have amplified public concern.

The association emphasized that no similar activities are taking place now and that corporate cards are being used responsibly. It pledged a sweeping set of reforms designed to improve transparency, strengthen ethical guidelines, and rebuild public trust.

The apology arrives at a fraught time for the KFA, which recently failed to progress in the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifying process. The federation is also under investigation for the appointment of former national team head coach Hong Myung‑bo in 2024, with police conducting a raid on the KFA’s main office earlier this week.

Last month, former KFA president Chung Mong‑gyu faced a parliamentary hearing alongside Hong, fielding questions about team management and federation operations. In the wake of the disappointing World Cup campaign, Chung resigned from his position as president.

South Korea finished third in Group A with three points, securing a win over the Czech Republic but suffering defeats to Mexico and South Africa. The group‑stage exit led to Hong’s removal and Chung’s resignation.

In his resignation address, Chung reflected on the federation’s historic achievements, including the nation’s fourth‑place finish at the 2002 FIFA World Cup, while also acknowledging recent failures. The KFA’s apology and reform agenda aim to restore confidence and ensure that future competitions are conducted with integrity.