Controversy surrounds S’Korean striker Hwang Ui-jo as suspension casts shadow over Asian Cup preparation
By Sabiu Abdullahi
South Korean striker Hwang Ui-jo, currently playing for Norwich City, has been suspended from the national team just seven weeks before the much-anticipated Asian Cup.
The suspension comes in light of an ongoing police investigation into allegations that Hwang illegally filmed a sexual encounter with his ex-girlfriend without her consent.
Despite the suspension from international duty, Hwang, on loan from Nottingham Forest, continues to be eligible to play for Norwich City.
The 31-year-old forward, who scored in a recent match against Watford, denies the allegations against him.
The Korea Football Association (KFA) announced the decision on Tuesday, underscoring the necessity of awaiting a definitive conclusion to the police investigation before considering Hwang for the national team.
Lee Youn-nam, the head of the KFA’s ethics committee, noted the expectation for national players to uphold a high standard of morality and responsibility.
Hwang Ui-jo, with 19 goals in 62 appearances for South Korea, leaves a notable gap in the national team’s lineup ahead of the Asian Cup.
Coach Jurgen Klinsmann expressed his understanding of the situation, pledging to respect the decision of the KFA.
Klinsmann had previously included Hwang in recent World Cup qualifying matches, defending his choice amid the ongoing police probe.
The Asian Cup, set to commence in Qatar on January 12, poses additional challenges for South Korea as they open their campaign against Bahrain three days later.
The suspension adds an unexpected layer of controversy to the team’s preparations, raising questions about the potential impact on their performance in the upcoming tournament.