South Korean police are taking extensive security measures at Incheon Airport ahead of the arrival of the national World Cup team, following a death threat against outgoing manager Hong Myung-Bo. The 57-year-old former captain resigned after his side's group-stage exit from the World Cup, drawing harsh condemnation from the country's president, who called the coach "incapable" and demanded an investigation into their poor performance.
Death Threat Prompts Massive Police Response
According to the Daily Mail, the Incheon Metropolitan Police Agency has announced they are sending 160 riot and airport police for the return of the national team on Tuesday. The move follows threats to Hong's life. Korean news agency Yonhap reports an online post read: 'I will take the lead and kill Hong Myung-bo XXX,' and added that they would 'go to Incheon Airport and kill Hong Myung-bo on the day of his return.'
Twenty-five special security guards have also been deployed. A police statement read: 'We have decided to deploy officers to prevent safety accidents that may occur during the entry process. We will respond strictly to any illegal acts, including the throwing of objects.'
Background of the Threat
Hong Myung-bo, who captained South Korea to the 2002 World Cup semifinals, was in his second stint as coach and oversaw an early World Cup departure for the second time. Following the exit, he reportedly received death threats from angry fans. The president's criticism and the online threat have escalated security concerns, prompting the large-scale police presence at Incheon, Korea's third-biggest city.
