South Korea’s football governing body has formally apologised for a scandal that dates back to the early 2010s, when officials are alleged to have spent nearly 5.6 million won on sexual entertainment for foreign referees.
A 2016 report from the Ministry of Culture, Sport and Tourism revealed that KFA staff had recorded those payments as meals, drinks or massages, effectively masking the true nature of the expenses.
Referees who benefited from the scheme officiated in crucial qualifiers for the 2014 World Cup and the London 2012 Olympic Games, adding an international dimension to the controversy.
A scandal that still echoes
The fallout reached the association’s top ranks: KFA president Chung Mong-gyu and national team manager Hong Myung‑bo both stepped down after South Korea’s disappointing showing at the 2022 World Cup, where the team finished behind Mexico, the Czech Republic and South Africa.
Police later raided the KFA headquarters, probing alleged obstruction of business linked to Hong’s appointment and the broader sexual‑favour allegations.
In a public statement, the KFA acknowledged the past misconduct while insisting that no current inappropriate behaviour exists, a move aimed at restoring confidence in the organization’s purpose.
Amid the crisis, former captain Park Ji‑sung has proposed expanding the electorate for future presidential elections to roughly 20,000 members, including semi‑professional players, in a bid to democratise the association.
The allegations carry a 15‑year statute of limitations in South Korea, meaning the investigation could still have legal repercussions for those involved.