Yang Hyun-jun

South Korea footballers, including Tottenham Hotspur winger Yang Hyun-jun, have apologised after celebrating the military service exemptions they earned through the team's Asian Games gold medal. The backlash came as South Korea remains on heightened military alert following martial law turmoil, making the celebratory tone appear insensitive. The players expressed regret, saying they did not intend to offend.

South Korean footballers, including Tottenham Hotspur's Yang Hyun-jun, have apologised after celebrating receiving military service exemptions. Exemptions from mandatory military service are awarded to athletes who win major honours for their country, making them highly sought after. The players' public celebration of the privilege drew criticism, prompting them to issue apologies, according to a report by The New York Times.