Kim Young-kwang Responds to Outpouring of Support Over Hong Myung-bo Remarks

Former soccer player turned broadcaster Kim Young-kwang has thanked fans for the wave of support he received after publicly criticizing Hong Myung-bo, the recently departed head coach of the South Korean men's national soccer team.

On June 28, Kim posted a long message on social media addressing the response. "Lately, so many people have been cheering me on and reaching out first to say they want to help," he wrote. "Every one of those messages has been more than I deserve, and they've given me real strength."

He told followers the most meaningful support came in a simple form. "The biggest help to me is subscribing to my YouTube channel and following me on social media," he said. "As a person, as a human being, I'll always do my best to repay you with more sincerity in how I act."

Kim closed the post with another note of thanks. "Thank you for being with me until now, and if you keep walking alongside me with the same heart, it'll mean everything," he wrote. "I know your support is never something I should take for granted. Truly, thank you."

The message drew extra attention because it came just days after Kim openly took aim at Hong on a live broadcast.

On June 25, during the TikTok Live variety program "Tikitiki Takataka Talk Talk Show," Kim was watching South Korea's 2026 FIFA World Cup group-stage match against South Africa when he weighed in on the team's situation. "What matters is there's still a chance to make the round of 32," he said, before shouting, "Hong Myung-bo, get out."

Hong's appointment had been controversial from the start. After the national team finished the World Cup group stage with one win and two losses and failed to advance to the round of 32, public criticism intensified. Hong eventually stepped down, taking responsibility for the poor results.

Kim's outburst spread quickly online, and fans rallied behind him. Comments praised the moment as "a man with conviction," "refreshing to hear," "saying what needed to be said without worrying about the optics," and "a brave thing to do." Former tennis player Lee Hyung-taik also chimed in with a comment of his own, writing, "Young-kwang, fighting."