Ahn Jung-hwan Quits Soccer World

Former national soccer player and broadcaster Ahn Jung-hwan recently clarified his recent remarks and expressed his firm beliefs regarding the soccer world. He addressed his comment about the South Korean national team's elimination from the 2026 North, Central America, and Caribbean World Cup, where he stated, "General fans can say that, but those who are not even qualified are talking strangely." Ahn Jung-hwan acknowledged that his wording was harsh, but emphasized, "I also have the freedom to express myself," explaining that misunderstandings likely arose because his remarks were taken out of context.

He also clarified the situation where it was reported that he looked at someone's reaction after Kim Young-kwang shouted "Hong Myung-bo out" on broadcast after the match against Mexico. Ahn Jung-hwan stated, "I wasn't looking at someone's reaction, I was looking at the script," asserting that he is not the type of person to be swayed by others' reactions.

Ahn Jung-hwan made his critical stance on the Korea Football Association clear. He expressed anger at the idea of people wanting to hold positions within the association, stating that he has never entered the Football Association in 14 years. Regarding Park Joo-ho's revelations about the national team coach selection process, he raised his voice, saying he cannot criticize what he doesn't know because he wasn't involved.

Finally, Ahn Jung-hwan strongly urged for reform of the association, warning, "If things go wrong, I will go to the association and stage a one-person protest. If a completely reformed association does this again, I will protest and leave the soccer world." While he personally respects coach Hong Myung-bo, he stated, "​He must resign." He added that criticism regarding game performance or skill is acceptable, but attacks on individuals or their families should not occur.