Captain Son Heung-min led a small group of South Korean men's national football team players arriving at Incheon International Airport early Wednesday, where dozens of supporters offered encouraging words.
Fans shouted 'Don't hang your head' and 'Thank you for your hard work' as the players walked through the gate. This reaction contrasted with boos directed at former head coach Hong Myung-bo the previous day.
Hong resigned Sunday morning in the team's base camp in Zapopan, western Mexico. South Korea finished third in Group A with three points from one win and two losses, missing the knockout stage.
According to the Korea Football Association, players and staff traveled home in small groups due to flight booking difficulties. Son posted an apology on Instagram on June 30, expressing regret to fans and pledging to return stronger.
This marked Son's fourth World Cup. He turns 34 next Wednesday.
