Son Heung Min’s Family Faces Suspension Over Child Abuse Allegations
In a significant development, the father and brother of renowned Korean soccer star Son Heung Min have been suspended from coaching duties due to allegations of child abuse at their training academy.
On May 21, the Gangwon Football Association (GFA) announced that Son Woong Jung, father of the Tottenham Hotspur forward, has received a three-month suspension. His brother, Son Heung Yoon, has faced an even more severe consequence, with a six-month suspension handed down. This disciplinary action follows an investigation by the Korea Sports Ethics Center (KSEC), which resulted from accusations made against the SON Football Academy regarding abusive coaching practices.
Previously, in March 2024, several coaches at the academy were accused of physically abusing their students. While Son Woong Jung issued an apology concerning the controversy, he also maintained that many claims were exaggerated.
“I regret that I have failed to recognize the changing times and standards set by the law and instructed the children in my own way. I vow to find another way so the kids will be able to concentrate the best they can on the field and commit to the training,” he stated.
In November 2024, the Chuncheon District Court indicted three officials from the academy for violations related to the Child Welfare Act, each fined ₩3.00 million KRW (approximately $2,150 USD). The GFA has implemented what it has termed the lowest level of disciplinary action in such cases; it determined that although Son Woong Jung exhibited verbal abuse, his actions, along with the physical abuse committed by others at the academy, were not premeditated.
Both Son Woong Jung and Son Heung Yoon have requested the authorities to reconsider their suspensions. The lawyer representing the victims has pointed out the repeated nature of the abuse, arguing that it cannot simply be categorized as impulsive behavior.
Son Woong Jung, a former professional soccer player himself, has a history of strict upbringing, a point he has openly discussed in interviews. In a 2020 conversation, he remarked, “I beat up Heung Min a lot,” a sentiment echoed in his book describing his rigorous training methods. Though allegations of child abuse have surfaced, Son Heung Min has not publicly accused his father of wrongdoing and has consistently spoken highly of his coaching techniques.
As the situation unfolds, many are watching closely, hoping for a resolution that prioritizes the welfare of young athletes.
