The Korea Football Federation was embroiled in a major scandal following an investigation by the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism
The report mentions referees from Japan, the United Arab Emirates, Iran, Bahrain, and Uzbekistan as alleged individuals involved in the case, although so far no details have been released regarding potential individual responsibilities or specific sanctions.
During that cycle, the South Korean national team remained unbeaten in the official matches corresponding to those competitions.
Despite the seriousness of the accusations, a potential sporting sanction from FIFA seems unlikely.
It has been reported that the investigated acts may have expired according to the Code of Ethics of the governing body of world football, making it difficult for the case to lead to international disciplinary measures.
South Korea's football is going through a complex year. Following an early elimination in the group stage of the 2026 World Cup, an official investigation has once again placed the federation in the spotlight.
According to the report prepared by the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism, the entity allegedly financed sexual services to enhance its relationship with international referees during the qualifying process for the 2014 Olympic Games and World Cup.
Authorities claim that payments were made using credit cards linked to the federation and correspond to the period between 2011 and 2012.
According to the investigation, the meetings allegedly took place in massage parlors and adult venues located in Seoul.
