Chung Mong-gyu Resigns as Football Association President After 13 Years and 5 Months [2026 World Cup]

"All shortcomings and mistakes are entirely my responsibility"

"Supporting Korean football as a passionate fan"

Chung Mong-gyu, President of the Korea Football Association, has stepped down from his position after serving for approximately 13 years and 5 months.

The Korea Football Association announced that on the morning of July 6, Chung presided over his final executive board meeting at Cheonan Korea Football Park, attended by vice presidents and directors, before submitting his letter of resignation. Chung had led the association since being inaugurated as its 52nd president in January 2013, successfully serving four consecutive terms.

Previously, on May 29, about two weeks before the opening of the 2026 North and Central America World Cup, Chung issued a statement declaring that he would step down after the tournament. However, given the national team's poor performance at the World Cup and growing controversies surrounding the association in recent days, it is interpreted that he decided to bring forward his resignation.

Chung Mong-gyu, President of the Korea Football Association. Photo by Yonhap News

In his farewell address, Chung stated, "I have devoted myself solely to the growth and glory of Korean football, but at times I have also caused deep disappointment to the public." He continued, "All honors and achievements are thanks to the players and fans, while all shortcomings and mistakes are entirely my responsibility."

He went on to say, "Now, I will step down as president and return as a passionate football fan to continue supporting Korean football. I am confident that, as always, Korean football will rise above countless challenges and soar even higher once again."

During his tenure, Chung is credited with contributing to the construction of Cheonan Korea Football Park, establishing the division system, strengthening the association’s financial stability through long-term contracts with partners and broadcasters, and achieving qualification for the World Cup finals 11 times in a row. On the other hand, he also faced heavy criticism for procedural controversies in the process of appointing national team coaches and for pursuing pardons for football figures implicated in match-fixing scandals.

With Chung’s resignation, the association will immediately transition to an acting president system. According to Article 23 of its articles of association, one of the vice presidents, upon approval by the Korean Sport & Olympic Committee, will serve as acting president until a new president is elected.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.