Son Heung-min, Four South Korean Teammates Resolve Dressing-Room Dispute

Posted : 12 November 2026

South Korea captain Son Heung-min and four of his international teammates have announced that they have put their differences behind them following reports of serious disagreements within the national team's dressing room.

Son, alongside Bayern Munich defender Kim Min-jae, Lee Jae-sung, Hwang In-beom and Hwang Hee-chan, released a joint statement on Thursday addressing the controversy and apologising to supporters for the concern caused by reports of internal divisions.

The disagreement reportedly emerged following South Korea's disappointing group-stage elimination from the 2026 World Cup, which was followed by the departure of head coach Hong Myung-bo. Speculation subsequently grew about tensions between Son and some of his younger teammates over leadership and communication within the squad.

However, the five players confirmed that they had held discussions during the team's training camp in Doha, Qatar, allowing them to express their concerns and understand one another's perspectives.

They explained that their conversations focused on identifying the problems affecting the national team and finding ways to prevent similar disappointments in future competitions. The players also insisted that their differences were driven by a shared desire to improve South Korean football rather than personal disputes or individual interests.

The group also rejected reports suggesting that some players had threatened to retire from international football to force specific demands on the team. They maintained that their priority was addressing the situation internally before making any public statements.

In their message, the players promised to move beyond the controversy, respect one another's responsibilities and work together towards a common objective. They also expressed their commitment to setting a positive example for younger footballers representing the country.

Meanwhile, Spanish coach Robert Moreno continues to oversee South Korea on an interim basis following Hong's departure. His current contract is reportedly scheduled to expire later this month, leaving uncertainty surrounding his long-term future with the national team.

South Korea are preparing for two international friendlies in Qatar, beginning with Friday's meeting against Saudi Arabia before taking on the host nation four days later.

The fixtures were initially intended to help the team prepare for the 2027 AFC Asian Cup in Saudi Arabia. However, the continental competition has been postponed until December 2027.

With the dressing-room controversy seemingly addressed, South Korea will hope to restore confidence among supporters and build a stronger foundation ahead of their next major international challenge.

Son Heung-min, Four South Korean Teammates Resolve Dressing-Room Dispute

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