Former KFA Vice President Kim Jeong-bae Appears Before Police... Investigation Focuses on Alleged Higher-Up Interference in Hong Myung-bo Appointment

[Financial News] Kim Jeong-bae, the former full-time vice president of the Korea Football Association (KFA), appeared before police over allegations that senior officials improperly interfered in the appointment of former national team coach Hong Myung-bo.
According to Financial News on the 26th, the Financial Crime Investigation Unit of the Seoul Metropolitan Police Agency summoned Kim that day and is questioning him about the coach selection process and whether senior KFA officials were involved improperly.
Yoon Deok-yeo, who served on the National Team Committee at the time of Hong's appointment, was also reportedly questioned by police on the same day.
Kim, a former vice minister of culture, sports and tourism, was the only full-time vice president among the KFA's vice presidents when Hong was appointed in 2024, and he oversaw the association's day-to-day operations. Police are examining whether he improperly intervened in the coach selection process.
Police are continuing their investigation with former KFA President Chung Mong-gyu, former technical director Lee Lim-saeng, and Hong as suspects.
Earlier, the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism said in its special audit of the KFA in 2024 that there had been unauthorized interference and procedural problems in Hong's appointment. It then requested severe disciplinary action, including suspension, against Chung, Kim, and Lee.
Based on the ministry's audit findings and materials secured during a search and seizure of the KFA, police are reviewing the entire coach selection process.
Police have already questioned Hong, Lee, members of the National Team Committee, and KFA board members, and are reportedly considering summoning Chung for questioning as well.
[email protected] Choi Seung-han Reporter