South Korea captain Son Heung-min has received an overwhelming wave of support from fellow celebrities after posting a heartfelt apology following the national team’s disappointing exit from the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

While criticism has intensified following South Korea’s failure to advance beyond the group stage, Son Heung-min took full responsibility as captain, earning praise for his leadership and sincerity.

On June 30, the LAFC forward shared a lengthy message on Instagram, expressing his regret over South Korea’s poor World Cup campaign. “I don’t know where to begin,” Son Heung-min wrote. “I couldn’t pretend nothing happened, and I don’t want to avoid reality.”

He apologized to supporters across the country, saying that as someone who loves football, he fully understood the disappointment and frustration fans were experiencing. “The World Cup has always been the dream stage I’ve talked about since I was a child. It feels like that dream has collapsed. I’m deeply saddened, and honestly, it’s still difficult to accept this reality.” The 34-year-old admitted he feels a heavy sense of responsibility for failing to repay the unwavering support of Korean football fans.

Despite the painful defeat, Son Heung-min vowed to keep fighting for the national team. He also urged supporters not to direct excessive criticism toward his teammates, asking fans to continue encouraging the squad during this difficult period.

Son Heung-min’s emotional message prompted an outpouring of support from celebrities across the entertainment industry. Among those who commented was Kim Hee-chul of Super Junior, who shared a crying reaction image to express his sympathy.

Actor Park Bo-gum left a heartfelt message asking Son to continue representing South Korea at the 2030 FIFA World Cup. “Son Heung-min, I sincerely hope you’ll be with us again at the 2030 World Cup.”

Composer Don Spike also defended the players, writing: “The players are not to blame. I’m already looking forward to seeing them shine at the next World Cup. Go Korea!”

Former profiler and television personality Kwon Il-yong praised Son Heung-min's unwavering attitude, saying he would continue supporting the captain regardless of the result.

Singer Kim Song, wife of Kang Won-rae, reminded Son Heung-min that "you can't always win" and thanked him for giving everything on the pitch.

Actors Lee Si-eon and singer KCM also left messages thanking the squad for their hard work, while numerous other celebrities—including musical actor Kim Ho-young, TV personality Chae Rina, comedian Lee Yong-joo, Italian broadcaster Alberto Mondi, rapper Hangzoo, rapper Loopy, and model Hye Park—joined in offering words of encouragement.

Although South Korea's World Cup campaign ended in disappointment, many fans have praised Son Heung-min for accepting responsibility and standing by both supporters and teammates.

His apology, combined with the overwhelming support from the entertainment industry, has further cemented his reputation as one of South Korea's most respected sporting figures.

Sources: Netizenbuzz