Park Seung-soo issues apology statement after backlash from Asian Games

Park Seung-soo has issued an apology to South Korea fans following criticism over a social media post made after his country’s Asian Games final victory over Japan.

The Newcastle United youngster came off the bench late on as South Korea won 1-0 to claim gold, with the result also securing a military service exemption for the players involved.

Park Seung-soo apologises after cap controversy 

The 19-year-old found himself at the centre of controversy after posting a dressing-room picture wearing a South Korean military ‘discharge cap’, with the image quickly attracting criticism from supporters who felt it was insensitive towards those completing their full military service.

Seung-soo removed the post before issuing a full apology, explaining that the hat had been given to him by a fan at the stadium and that he had not considered its wider meaning in the immediate aftermath of the victory.

The teenager quickly responded, posting this apology across his social media to address his 'thoughtless actions':

“Hello. I am Park Seung-soo, a member of the national football team for the Asian Games. I would like to apologise to the fans regarding the photo I posted on social media immediately after the finals.

“I am sincerely sorry to those who felt uncomfortable because of my actions. Immediately after the match ended, I received and wore a hat given to me by a fan at the venue. I was overwhelmed with joy and emotion at winning the gold medal as a result of the time and effort I had put into preparation, so at that moment, I took a picture and posted it on social media without giving deep thought to the meaning of the hat.

“However, I never had any intention of mocking those fulfilling their military duty or taking their efforts lightly. Nor have I ever once taken the significance of the Taegeuk mark lightly. I am fully aware that the opportunities and benefits granted by this gold medal are by no means something to be taken for granted.

“Moving forward, I will demonstrate a more responsible attitude to repay the support and expectations of the people. Once again, I sincerely apologise to everyone who felt uncomfortable due to my thoughtless actions.”

What next for Seung-soo?

With the Asian Games now complete, Seung-soo will return to Newcastle and rejoin the club’s Under-21 setup as he looks to continue his development.

The winger featured for the first team during pre-season and will now be hoping to build on that experience as he waits for his competitive senior debut.

With competition for places particularly strong in the wide areas, it could be an interesting few months for the youngster. Michael Mills and Kyran Thompson are both making real strides after starting for England U18s, while Trevan Sanusi remains another talented option who perhaps hasn’t received the same attention recently.

A January loan move could therefore be one to watch if Newcastle decide regular senior football elsewhere would be the best next step for Seung-soo.

For now, though, the priority will be getting back to work with the Under-21s, taking his chance in first-team training if given the chance by Matthias Jaissle, and continuing to push for that first-team opportunity a year after his switch from South Korea.