During the mixed zone interviews following the final, Yang was asked about receiving a medal instead of a traditional trophy. In comments reported by Chosun, the 20-year-old forward stated that medals and trophies were secondary, adding that the squad played with the military service exemption as their primary reward in mind. The remarks immediately drew sharp criticism from the public and sports officials for prioritizing personal career benefits over the prestige of representing the national team.
Official Scrutiny and Teammate Fallout
The controversy intensified as other members of the under-23 squad faced similar scrutiny over social media posts and post-match comments. Captain Lee Gi-hyeok drew public attention with remarks concerning military service, while teammate Park Seung-su faced criticism over a commemorative discharge hat photograph shared online, according to Chosun’s reporting.
The fallout prompted a direct response from the Korean Sport & Olympic Committee (KSOC). KSOC President Yoo Seong-min publicly addressed the incident, acknowledging that while players might view certain matters through the lens of individuality, national team members are expected to maintain appropriate dignity and exercise caution in their public statements and media appearances.
Apology and Recommitment to Professional Standards
Faced with mounting criticism, Yang Min-hyeok published a formal statement on his personal social media account to clarify his intent and apologize for the public discomfort caused by his words.
“Participating in the Asian Games as a member of the Republic of Korea national team itself had great meaning to me, and as a player I naturally did my best aiming for the championship and the gold medal,” Yang stated in his apology published by Chosun. He acknowledged that while the special military service benefit—which allows athletes to fulfill service requirements through a brief basic training period and two years and ten months as arts and sports personnel—was one of several professional motivations, his phrasing created the impression that he took the national title lightly.
Yang emphasized that the gold medal was achieved through collective effort and the support of many supporters rather than individual merit alone, adding that he never intended to mock or belittle citizens fulfilling their mandatory military duties. The forward concluded his statement by pledging to demonstrate responsibility and improved performance on the field moving forward.
Reporting source: biz.chosun.com.