Son Heung-min is at the center of a media boycott by South Korea players after reporters allegedly mocked his military service.
What happened?
The incident occurred during a training session when reporters were caught on a hot mic making inappropriate comments about Son's military service.
The Korea Football Association expressed regret over the remarks, stating that they caused great shock and disappointment to the team.
Why it matters for Son Heung-min
Son Heung-min completed a three-week basic military training in 2020, which included being exposed to tear gas, live-fire drills, and 30km hikes.
This experience is a significant part of his life, and the mocking remarks have understandably upset him and his teammates.
What comes next?
The South Korea team will still have to fulfill media duties mandated by FIFA, such as pre-match press conferences, ahead of their match against Mexico on June 18.
Coach Hong Myung-bo must decide how to use Son, whose influence has waned since his move to Major League Soccer side LAFC in 2025.
The match against Mexico is crucial for both teams, as the winners will take a major step towards securing top spot in Group A.
South Korea began the tournament with a 2-1 victory over the Czech Republic, thanks to a late winner from striker Oh Hyeon-gyu.
Mexico also started with a win, defeating South Africa 2-0, but will be without defender Cesar Montes, who was sent off in the match.
The South Korea team's media officers did not respond to a request for comment, but the KFA has requested media outlets to show greater consideration and a responsible attitude towards the squad.
The KFA will continue to prioritize the protection of the squad and strive to create a healthy media environment.
The controversy surrounding Son Heung-min's military service has highlighted the importance of respecting athletes' personal experiences and boundaries.
As the World Cup progresses, it will be interesting to see how this incident affects the team's performance and dynamics.
On June 18, South Korea will face Mexico, and the outcome of this match will have significant implications for the team's chances of advancing in the tournament.
The match will be a test of the team's strength and resilience, and Son Heung-min will be a key player to watch.
With his skills and experience, he can make a significant impact on the game and help his team secure a win.
The World Cup is a platform for athletes to showcase their talents and compete at the highest level, and Son Heung-min is ready to give it his all.
As the tournament unfolds, fans will be watching closely to see how Son Heung-min and the South Korea team perform, and how they overcome the challenges they face.
The team's determination and spirit will be put to the test, and it will be exciting to see how they respond to the pressure and expectations.
On 18 Jun, the world will be watching as South Korea takes on Mexico in a match that promises to be intense and thrilling.
The stage is set for an exciting encounter, and Son Heung-min is ready to lead his team to victory.
The outcome of the match is far from certain, but one thing is clear: Son Heung-min and the South Korea team will give it their all and fight for every ball.
The World Cup is a time for heroes to emerge, and Son Heung-min is ready to make his mark on the tournament.
As the match approaches, the anticipation is building, and fans are eager to see what will happen next.
The fate of the South Korea team rests on their performance, and Son Heung-min is ready to lead them to success.
The world is watching, and the pressure is on, but Son Heung-min is confident and focused.
He knows what it takes to win, and he is ready to do whatever it takes to help his team succeed.
The match against Mexico will be a defining moment in the tournament, and Son Heung-min is ready to make it count.
The stage is set, the players are ready, and the world is waiting: it's time for Son Heung-min and the South Korea team to shine.
The World Cup is a time for dreams to come true, and Son Heung-min is ready to make his dreams a reality.
He has the skill, the talent, and the determination to succeed, and he is ready to give it his all.
The fate of the South Korea team is in his hands, and he is ready to lead them to victory.
The world is watching, and the pressure is on, but Son Heung-min is ready to rise to the challenge.
He is a true leader, a skilled player, and a dedicated athlete, and he is ready to make his mark on the World Cup.
The match against Mexico is just the beginning, and Son Heung-min is ready to take on the world.
He is confident, focused, and determined, and he is ready to lead his team to success.
The World Cup is a time for heroes to emerge, and Son Heung-min is ready to be one of them.
The stage is set, the players are ready, and the world is waiting: it's time for Son Heung-min and the South Korea team to shine.