Son Heung-min issued a public apology to fans following South Korea’s early exit from the World Cup, taking responsibility as captain and expressing deep regret over the team’s inability to advance further in the tournament. Speaking after the final group stage match, Son acknowledged the disappointment felt across the country and thanked supporters for their unwavering backing throughout the campaign, both in the stadiums and at home. He noted that the squad had prepared with belief and unity, but admitted that lapses in key moments and a failure to convert chances ultimately cost them progression.
The forward emphasized how much representing the national team means to him and his teammates, describing the World Cup as the highest honor and the early elimination as painful on a personal and collective level. While stressing that the players gave everything on the pitch, Son said results are what matter at this level and that the team must accept criticism and learn from the experience.
He also praised the effort of the coaching staff and younger players, urging fans to continue supporting the next generation as Korean football works to close the gap with the world’s top sides. Son closed by reaffirming his commitment to the national team and promising to use the setback as motivation, adding that the squad will reflect, regroup, and return stronger for future competitions.
