South Korea’s national football team staged a media boycott following a controversy involving derogatory remarks about Son Heung-Min’s military service exemption. The players declined to engage with domestic reporters after their 2-1 victory over the Czech Republic, limiting media interactions to those mandated by FIFA regulations.

The dispute arose from a leaked audio recording in which Korean journalists criticized Son’s shortened military service period. Under South Korean law, all able-bodied men are required to complete approximately 21 months of military duty. Son, however, served only 21 days after earning an exemption through his contribution to South Korea’s gold medal win at the 2018 Asian Games.

In response to the incident, the Korea Football Association (KFA) issued a statement expressing regret over the inappropriate remarks made by the reporters. Representatives from the new press corps leadership also extended a formal, face-to-face apology to Son Heung-Min.

The media boycott underscored tensions between the national team and elements of the South Korean press, reflecting broader sensitivities surrounding military service exemptions for high-profile athletes. The players’ refusal to participate in standard post-match media obligations followed the criticism of their teammate’s service record, highlighting the impact of the incident on team unity and relations with the press.

The KFA’s intervention and the apology from media representatives aimed to address the situation and restore professional relations ahead of South Korea’s continued participation in the World Cup.