Ulsan HD enter caretaker era after Hong gets fiery farewell

Ulsan HD are headed into their first weekend of K League 1 action sans Hong Myung-bo after the club confirmed the manager’s departure in a social media post Thursday.

Hong Myung-bo, center, attends what would be his final game as manager of Ulsan HD at Munsu Football Stadium in Ulsan on Wednesday. [NEWS1]

Ulsan HD are headed into their first weekend of K League 1 action sans Hong Myung-bo after the club confirmed the manager’s departure Thursday, a day after fans threw him an impromptu send-off with boos and angry banners and fake $100 bills at what would be his final game.

The Korea Football Association on July 7 announced Hong, who led Ulsan to back-to-back league titles in 2022 and 2023, as their pick to helm the national team — shocking many, as Hong had previously said he would refuse the job.

Hong said during a press conference Wednesday that he “honestly did not want to go” but the national team job feels like the “final challenge” of his football career.

"I just feel so sorry. It's been really good, and the time to leave comes someday, but I am really sorry to leave like this with my mistake. I have no words to say," Hong said.

Hong's contract at Ulsan was to run through 2026.

Ulsan are set to host FC Seoul on Saturday at Munsu Football Stadium in Ulsan before their quarterfinal match against Incheon United in the Korea Cup on Wednesday, also at home.

Lee Kyung-soo will serve as interim manager, Ulsan said.

The Korean national team next play in the third round of qualifiers for the 2026 World Cup in September.

BY MARY YANG [mary.yang@joongang.co.kr]