Son Heung-min posted a lengthy message on his social media, expressing his apologies to the nation and football fans following the failure to advance to the round of 32 at the 2026 North and Central America World Cup.

Son began his message on the 14th, saying, "I don't know where to start. I can't pretend I don't know, and I don't want to run away from reality." He continued, "I am truly sorry to the people of South Korea and to all the fans who love football," bowing his head.

He shared his feelings, saying, "As someone who loves football, I would have been truly disappointed and frustrated if I had watched a match like this," and added, "A single word of apology cannot capture the disappointment and pain the fans must be feeling." He also wrote, "I wanted to make sure I conveyed this message to the fans who must be spending the most difficult time of anyone, with so many emotions crossing their minds every day and every moment," adding, "This tournament was as precious to me as anything, and it feels like the stage of a young child's dream, which I have always talked about, has crumbled. My heart aches beyond words."

Son, who said it was not easy to accept the reality of being eliminated from the World Cup, predicted that the fans' sense of loss would be even greater than his own. "I believe the feelings the fans are experiencing are not much different from my own," he said, revealing a deep sense of responsibility. He went on, "I am well aware that so many things were sacrificed for this stage," and added, "I feel a great sense of responsibility for the fact that I was ultimately unable to repay the time, heart, unwavering support, and love you have sent us." He also added, "I sincerely thank everyone who believed in us, supported us, and stood by us until the end."

"I Will Run as if My Life Depends on It"… Vow to Rise Again

Son also emphasized his determination to rise again. He stated, "I will do my best in my position to win back the fans' hearts," and "I will run as if my life depends on it to bring you joy again." He also pledged, "I have never forgotten the promises I made to the fans," adding, "Until the day you come looking for me again, until the day you need me again, I will pour everything I have into preparing myself well once more."

At the end of his message, he also made a plea for warm support toward his national team teammates. Son appealed, "Rather than giving all the players excessive criticism and pain, I earnestly ask you to send them warm support and encouragement, even though I know it is very difficult."

Son's message, which conveyed an apology, gratitude, and a determination to rise again as captain following the World Cup elimination, is drawing significant attention from football fans.

[This article was written with AI assistance. It was compiled based on Son Heung-min's post published on social media, focusing on the intent and content of his remarks.]