Riot police deployed at airport after World Cup manager receives death threats

Riot police have been ordered to airport arrivals for South Korean boss Hong Myung-bo after he was targeted with death threats following his side's woeful performance at the World Cup.

South Korea were eliminated in Group A after being dealt a relatively easy draw against co-hosts Mexico, South Africa and the Czech Republic.

Major security measures had to be set up at the airport for the arrival of the South Korean team and staff.

The Incheon Metropolitan Police Agency announced that 160 riot and airport police will be deployed in case of any violence.

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Twenty-five security guards have also been sent to support the personnel.

A police statement read: "We have decided to deploy officers to prevent safety accidents that may occur during the entry process.

"We will respond strictly to any illegal acts, including the throwing of objects."

South Korea only won their opening match 2-1 against the Czech Republic, but after a couple of defeats to Mexico and South Africa, they did not do enough to qualify through the third-place route.

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South Korea have dropped seven places in the world rankings following their poor performance.

Myung-Bo stated he is "genuinely very sorry" for the performance and resigned as the nation's head coach.

In his resignation announcement, he said: "To all of the Korean people who love and support our national team, I would like to genuinely apologise. Today, I'd like to announce that I will step down as the national team head coach.

"As the head coach, no explanation can supersede the ultimate result. I could not bring the result that our people had expected. All responsibilities are with me.

"Today, I step down as the national team head coach. However, my heart for Korean football will remain the same.

"I will now support Korea national team to regain the trust and love of our people."

South Korea's president Lee Jae-Myung labelled the coach as "incapable", ordering a complete review of the national team programme.

He said: "As a former honorary professional football club chairman and, at heart, a member of the Red Devils, I feel not just surprise but deep bewilderment at this unexpected result.

"Once again, it has been proven that personnel decisions determine everything.

"If loyalty and factionalism are valued over competence and an incapable person is appointed as a leader, the outcome is as predictable as fire."

Lee told the national Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism to take action, saying: "I sincerely apologise to the public for the deep disappointment caused by this absurd situation.

"We will move swiftly to reform sports administration to ensure this does not happen again."

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