[iNews24, by Song Daesung] Hwang Ui-jo (Norwich City), who has been embroiled in privacy controversies such as illegal filming allegations, will not be able to wear the Taegeuk Mark for the time being.
The Korea Football Association (KFA) discussed Hwang Ui-jo, who is currently under investigation for illegal filming, during a meeting attended by the Ethics Committee, the Fair Play Committee, and the National Team Enhancement Committee on the afternoon of the 28th at the Football Association Building.
The KFA announced after a lengthy discussion, “We have decided not to select Hwang Ui-jo for the national team until a clear conclusion regarding the facts is reached.”
Yoon-nam Lee, the chairman of the Ethics Committee who presided over the meeting, explained, “Although there is still ongoing debate regarding the criminal allegations and the fact that the case is under investigation, the national team players should have a high level of morality and responsibility as representatives of the country. They should manage themselves and avoid actions that could damage the honor of the national team.”
He added, “Considering the fact that the player is being investigated as a suspect in an ongoing case, the difficulty of carrying out normal national team activities, and the high level of expectations from football fans towards the national team, we have determined that it is inappropriate to select Hwang Ui-jo as a member of the national team.”
Hwang Ui-jo recently underwent police investigation for allegations of illegal filming. On the 20th, the Seoul Metropolitan Police Agency reported, “Hwang Ui-jo is under investigation as a suspect for illegal filming.”
Earlier, a woman, referred to as A, who posted personal information and videos about Hwang Ui-jo on social media, was arrested on the 16th, causing controversy.
A was accused of sharing photos and videos claiming to be Hwang Ui-jo’s ex-girlfriend and of other women on social media in June. The investigation confirmed that A is Hwang Ui-jo’s sister-in-law.
Hwang Ui-jo explained that the allegations made in the exposé post on social media were groundless, but the victim of the illegal filming stated that they did not consent to the filming. The victim also refuted Hwang Ui-jo’s claim that the videos were consensually made between them as a couple.
Meanwhile, before the meeting, the KFA explained the overall situation related to the player to coach Jurgen Klinsmann. In response, Klinsmann expressed his understanding of the current situation and respect for the KFA’s decision.
