Korea national football team captain Son Heung-min apologized on social media early Tuesday following the team’s exit from the 2026 FIFA World Cup and vowed to bounce back. “I do not know where to start. I cannot ignore it, nor do I want to hide from reality,” the Los Angeles Football Club forward wrote. He sincerely apologized to the public, while noting that his apology could not capture the disappointment and hurt of Korean fans, acknowledging the emotional toll the tournament took on those who cheered on the team. Calling the exit a shattered “childhood dream,” he said he was devastated. “Even now, it is not easy to accept this reality,” Son said. “I will give everything to bring you joy again. I have not forgotten the promise I made to the fans,” he added. “As long as the fans still need me, I will give everything to prepare well again.” Son, meanwhile, urged fans to support the players instead of criticizing them. Son entered the tournament with three goals and one assist across his three previous World Cup appearances. He was tied for the most World Cup goals by a Korean player with
