Chung Mong-gyu steps down as Korea Football Association president after 13 years

Chung Mong-gyu has stepped down as president of the Korea Football Association after more than 13 years at the helm. With his resignation, Chung — who took office in January 2013 as the 52nd KFA president and served four consecutive terms — has relinquished the post.

The KFA said Chung submitted his resignation Monday morning after presiding over a final board meeting at Korea Football Park in Cheonan, attended by vice presidents and directors.

Chung had originally signaled his intention to resign ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup in North America, planning to formally step down after the tournament concluded.

He is understood to have moved up his departure to quickly resolve the controversies surrounding the KFA and restore normal operations within the organization.

In his farewell remarks, Chung said he had "run forward with only the development and glory of Korean football in mind, but at times also caused deep disappointment." He added: "All the glory and achievements belong to the players and the fans. Every shortcoming and mistake is entirely my responsibility."

"I will now step down from the presidency and return as one passionate football fan, cheering on Korean football," he said. "I am confident that Korean football, as it always has, will soar again to new heights after overcoming countless trials."

During his tenure, Chung is credited with building Korea Football Park in Cheonan, establishing a division system, strengthening the KFA's fiscal stability through long-term contracts with partners and broadcasters, and helping the national team qualify for 11 consecutive World Cups.

He also drew sharp criticism over procedural controversies in the national team coaching appointment process and an attempt to grant amnesty to individuals involved in match-fixing. He had faced sustained pressure to resign after the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism conducted a special audit and called for heavy disciplinary action — including suspension or harsher penalties — against Chung and other key KFA officials.

Meanwhile, with the president's departure, the KFA will immediately transition to an acting president system.

Under Article 23 of the KFA's articles of association, one of the vice presidents will assume the acting president role following approval from the Korean Sport & Olympic Committee.

As Chung's original term was set to run through 2029, leaving more than a year remaining, the KFA must elect a new president within 60 days.