Allegations of Gambling During Preparation Add to Controversy Surrounding Team's Performance

Courtesy of Juergen Klinsmann's instagram

Recent reports have emerged in local media indicating that some members of the South Korean men's national soccer team engaged in card playing for money during their training for the Asian Cup tournament.

According to these reports, a few players and a staff member participated in light gambling activities in January while the team was training in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, ahead of the Asian Cup. The exact identities of the players involved have not been confirmed, although reports suggest the number to be at least four or five.

The Korea Football Association (KFA) has acknowledged the reports, describing the activity as "a game of sorts, (but) not exactly gambling." It was reported that the stakes were minimal, with no player losing more than 50,000 won ($38).

Although South Korean law prohibits gambling, Article 246 of the Criminal Act specifies that "gambling for mere pastime" is not subject to punishment.

The staff member reportedly involved in the card playing has been relieved of duties, although the KFA stated that this action was not directly related to the gambling incident. Further investigation by the KFA is forthcoming, with potential disciplinary measures pending against the staff member.

While the incident is unlikely to result in criminal repercussions, public opinion has criticized the players for what is perceived as a lack of dedication to the Asian Cup tournament.

In the aftermath of the tournament, where South Korea suffered a 2-0 defeat to Jordan in the semifinals, additional scrutiny has been directed towards team dynamics. The altercation between team captain Son Heung-min and Lee Kang-in, reportedly over a disagreement about playing table tennis the night before the match against Jordan, has drawn attention. Son's leadership has garnered more support from the public in comparison to Lee's actions.

Following the Asian Cup, head coach Juergen Klinsmann was dismissed from his position, with Hwang Sun-hong, the under-23 men's team head coach, assuming the role of interim head coach for the national team's World Cup qualifiers.

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Blue YIM, yimyoungseo1010@naver.com