Lee Kang-in defends coach Hong

[Anchor]

Although it was a match to celebrate the 11th consecutive qualification for the World Cup, the public sentiment remains cold, with jeers directed at coach Hong Myung-bo.

Lee Kang-in has taken center stage by making a statement urging fans to refrain from excessive criticism, saying that coach Hong is the boss of the players.

Reporter Park Sun-woo reports.

[Report]

Lee Kang-in showcased his brilliant talent, proving that he will be a key player leading Korean football in next year's North and Central America World Cup.

Although Lee Kang-in once caused conflicts within the national team, he appeared more mature, seemingly aware of the heightened expectations.

As the criticism and jeers towards coach Hong Myung-bo continued, Lee Kang-in urged fans to show restraint through his candid remarks.

[Lee Kang-in/National Football Team: "The coach is our boss, so if there is too much criticism, it can affect the players as well. I really wanted to say that I hope you can see more of the positive aspects."]

Lee Kang-in emphasized that the excessive criticism from fans was unhelpful, especially noting the noticeably large absence in the match against Kuwait.

With ongoing controversies regarding the fairness of coach Hong Myung-bo's appointment and the cold public sentiment towards Chung Mong-gyu, the president of the Football Association, Lee Kang-in decided to step in directly.

[Lee Kang-in/National Football Team: "I want to bring happiness to the people through the World Cup, so I will work harder. It would be great if more people could help in that regard."]

Lee Kang-in has begun advocating a happy football philosophy, calling for support instead of excessive criticism.

With just one year until the World Cup kicks off, Korean football is unfortunately experiencing growing pains due to off-field issues.

KBS News, Park Sun-woo.