Song Jun-seop, head physician of the Korea national soccer team, publicly pushed back against the "fleeing the country" controversy surrounding former coach Hong Myung-bo's departure to the United States. He said criticism is possible but must be based on facts.

South Korea national soccer team former head coach Hong Myung-bo announces he will step down, taking responsibility for poor results, during a World Cup settlement of account press conference at the base camp set up at the Chivas Valle Verde training center in Zapopan near Guadalajara, Mexico, on the 28th last month (local time). /Courtesy of News1

On the 4th, Song wrote on his Facebook, "When life is the hardest, most painful, and most exhausting, who do you turn to?" and added, "Your family." He went on, "I'm truly heartsick to see reports calling former coach Hong's departure to LA an act of 'fleeing,'" and asked, "Is going to one's family really fleeing?"

He also voiced concern about the criticism directed at the former coach. Song said, "All criticism must be made within accurate facts, or its legitimacy and soundness will be questioned." He added, "Whether because of the time difference or out of regret, I spent a sleepless night."

The former coach returned with the national team on the 30th and left for Los Angeles, where his family is staying, two days later. Meeting reporters at the airport before departure, Hong said, "I have things to say, and someday they will be said properly."

Meanwhile, the National Assembly plans to investigate why the national team recorded poor results at this World Cup. Lawmakers intend to call Korea Football Association officials to review the coaching appointment process and overall association operations.

However, the former coach did not give a clear answer about when he would return. Asked at departure whether he would attend a National Assembly hearing, he said, "I don't know. I don't know what my return date will be."

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