Son Heung-min's military service has been pulled into an unexpected controversy after members of the South Korean media mocked his record.
The Korean Football Association condemned the remarks, prompting the Taegeuk Warriors to boycott domestic media.
## What happened?
Son Heung-min avoided the standard 21-month military service after helping South Korea win gold at the 2018 Asian Games.
He completed a three-week basic military training programme with the Marine Corps on Jeju Island in 2020.
The training included chemical, biological and radiological drills, bayonet work, shooting, battle skills and first aid.
## Why it matters for Son Heung-min
Son was named the top performer among almost 160 trainees and received the Pilsung prize.
He later described the experience as tough but positive, saying he spent every day in close quarters with fellow trainees.
Son still had to complete 544 hours of community service over the following 34 months.
## What comes next?
The controversy has put Son's record back under scrutiny, despite his case being well-documented and ending with recognition.
The Taegeuk Warriors' boycott of domestic media has added to the tension surrounding Son's military service.
Son's experience in the military has been seen as a positive one, with him saying he tried to enjoy the challenge.
The Korean Football Association's condemnation of the media's remarks has been seen as a strong statement in support of Son.
The situation has sparked debate about the treatment of athletes in the military, with some calling for greater understanding and respect.
Son's military service may be over, but the controversy surrounding it is far from resolved.
The World Cup star's record has been scrutinized, with some questioning the validity of his exemption.
But Son's achievements on the pitch, including his goal-scoring record, remain unchanged.
The controversy has not affected Son's performance on the pitch, with him continuing to be a key player for South Korea.
The Taegeuk Warriors will be hoping to put the controversy behind them and focus on their upcoming fixtures.
Son Heung-min's military service may be a thing of the past, but his legacy on the pitch will continue to be felt.
The Korean Football Association's support for Son has been seen as a positive step in resolving the controversy.
The situation has highlighted the importance of respecting athletes' military service, regardless of their achievements on the pitch.