The Korea Football Association (KFA) announced an open recruitment for an interim coach to lead the national football team until November, following a disappointing performance in the 2022 FIFA World Cup.
Why it matters: This marks the first time in KFA history that an interim national team coach will be selected through public recruitment. The decision comes in the aftermath of criticism over the previous coach's contract situation.
The interim coach will guide the team during the A-match periods scheduled from September to November.
South Korea was eliminated from the 2022 World Cup after losing 1-4 to Brazil in the Round of 16.
The KFA aims to finalize the selection process by the end of August, ahead of the upcoming A-match schedule.
Driving the news: On July 30, 2026, the KFA made the official announcement for the interim coach's open recruitment. Applications will be accepted from July 30 to August 9, 2026, at 5 PM.
Interested candidates must submit their coaching qualifications, CV, personal statement, and a detailed team management plan.
The management plan must include player selection criteria, tactical approaches, and coaching staff roles.
The selection committee will consist of KFA officials and external evaluators who will assess the applicants' coaching expertise and management capabilities.
State of play: The KFA's decision follows a period of turmoil after the World Cup, where the team's performance led to widespread dissatisfaction among fans and stakeholders.
Former coach Paulo Bento faced criticism for his tactics and player selection during his four-year tenure.
Concerns were raised about the future direction of the team, especially after failing to advance past the group stage.
Potential candidates for the interim position include Bento and former Jeonbuk Hyundai Motors coach Gus Poyet, though their willingness to accept a short-term role remains uncertain.
The big picture: The KFA's choice to publicly recruit an interim coach reflects a shift in its approach to leadership within the national team.
This method aims to restore trust and transparency in the KFA's decision-making processes.
By requiring teams of 5 to 7 coaching staff members, the KFA hopes to encourage collaboration and comprehensive strategies.
The interim coach's role will be limited to two months, emphasizing the need for immediate results and stability.
What they're saying: During a recent parliamentary hearing on KFA issues, former KFA president Jung Mong-kyu discussed the fallout from Bento's contract situation.
He stated, "Bento's insistence on a four-year contract was a key reason for the failure to renew his contract."
Jung acknowledged that there was considerable criticism directed at Bento during his tenure.
He also mentioned that he had offered a conditional contract based on performance in the upcoming Asian Cup, which Bento declined.
By the numbers: The KFA's recruitment process is notable for its strict eligibility requirements.
Domestic coaches must hold an AFC Pro License or equivalent, alongside a Level 2 sports coaching qualification.
Foreign coaches are required to possess the highest coaching qualifications issued by their respective continental federations under FIFA.
Applications will be evaluated based on a comprehensive assessment of the candidates' qualifications and management plans.
What's next: The KFA plans to complete the selection of the interim coach by the end of August.
The new coach will be expected to implement strategies that lead to improved performance during the upcoming international matches.
The interim coach's contract will last until the end of November, coinciding with the A-match period.
As the KFA navigates this transition, the focus will be on restoring confidence and achieving results on the field.