SEOUL: South Korea and Paris St Germain midfielder Lee Kang In formally apologised in Seoul today for his role in an altercation with captain Son Heung Min during the Asian Cup as his country prepare for their 2026 World Cup qualifying matches.
Kang In bowed down to offer a formal public apology at Seoul World Cup Stadium after being called for South Korea's home-and-away World Cup qualifying fixtures against Thailand.
Heung Min was left with a dislocated finger as the team mates got into a scuffle on the eve of their Asian Cup semi-final. Kang In had received heavy criticism in South Korea, where Tottenham Hotspur forward Kang In remains the most popular athlete.
The Koreans ended up losing the semi-final to Jordan, a result which extended their 64-year wait for a third Asian title and also led to coach Jurgen Klinsmann being fired.
"I received so much love and support from fans during the Asian Cup, but I did not reward my fans and I disappointed them," Kang In told Korean media today.
"Criticism from everyone will help me down the road. I will try hard to become a better person and a better football player, someone who can help the team and set good examples."
Earlier in the day, Heung Min told a press conference that Kang In had also offered "a heartfelt apology" during Tuesday's team dinner and the squad had fully accepted it.
"It takes courage to apologise, and Kang In stood in front of everyone to do it sincerely," Heung Min said. "I think it allowed everyone to really come close. The vibe in the room is not too bad. I think you won't have to write about my finger anymore."-- Reuters