South Korea's World Cup Training Reportedly Targeted by Drone Surveillance

The South Korean national football team was allegedly subjected to drone surveillance during training ahead of their crucial 2026 World Cup match against Mexico, according to a report by German magazine Sport Bild. The incident occurred at the team's training facility in Zapopan, Mexico, while star player Son Heung-min led warm-up exercises. A Mexican military official reportedly intercepted the drone, but suspected perpetrators later recovered the device and fled without being identified. The South Korean Football Association has informed FIFA about the incident.

Coach Hong Myung-bo described the event as "disappointing" but said it did not impact the team's preparations. "During our training, there was a drone flying in the air, and we were aware of it. Fortunately, it happened just before we started working on tactical plans, so it did not affect us," he told British newspaper The Guardian. He added that the timing during match preparations made the situation unfortunate.

South Korea has been drawn into a group with Mexico, Czech Republic, and South Africa in the 2026 World Cup, co-hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada. The team began their tournament with an exciting 2-1 victory over the Czech Republic and now faces Mexico in a highly anticipated match. The alleged surveillance has raised concerns about security and privacy at the tournament.