Korean soccer stars are becoming victims of Chinese kung fu soccer.
The South Korean national soccer team, led by coach Hong Myung-bo, achieved a scoreless victory against Hong Kong in the 2025 East Asian Football Federation (EAFF) E-1 Championship (East Asian Cup) held at Yongin Mir Stadium at 11 p.m. on the 7th. Korea recorded its second consecutive win following a 3-0 triumph over China.
Lee Dong-kyung, who is set to be discharged from military service ahead of the match against China, scored a stunning goal. In the 8th minute of the first half, Lee evaded the defense with a good touch near the right side of the box and curled a shot with his left foot. The ball took a fantastic trajectory, passed the Chinese goalkeeper, and found the back of the net.
China, lacking skill, resorted to violent soccer. In the 34th minute of the first half, Gao Tengi stepped on Lee Dong-kyung's foot near the sideline. He received a warning for a dangerous play that appeared intentional. It was a scene that could have led to expulsion. This tournament did not have video review, so it stopped at a warning.
Eventually, the women's soccer team was also affected. The women's national soccer team, led by coach Shin Sang-woo, drew 2-2 against China in the first match of the women's division of the 2025 E-1 Football Championship (East Asian Cup) held at Suwon World Cup Stadium on the 9th.
Korea was on the verge of defeat, trailing 1-2, but was rescued from the crisis by a dramatic equalizer from Ji So-yeon (Seattle Reign) during stoppage time in the second half.
There was a stunning moment in the 38th minute of the first half. Ji So-yeon attempted a header for a high ball. Liu Jing of China kicked Ji So-yeon's chest with his sole. It was a very dangerous play due to the studs. However, without video review (VAR) for this tournament, the referee stopped at a warning.
Fortunately, Ji So-yeon was not seriously injured, but it was a very dangerous situation. Liu Jing should have been expelled. This is why introducing VAR is essential for the long-term success of the tournament.
Chinese media is being unreasonable. 'Sohu.com' claimed, "The Chinese national team exhibited better sportsmanship than Korea. They committed fewer fouls than their opponents. They demonstrated excellent sportsmanship throughout the match, including giving Korea an attack right at an out situation right before the end of the match."
The Japanese media was also angered by the sight of Chinese soccer. Japan's 'Higashi Web' pointed out, "There is no way to stop China's kung fu soccer. China's dangerous play even threatened Korean living legend Ji So-yeon. It was a play that could lead to injury," adding, "Without VAR in this tournament, there is no basis for proper punishment. Such plays could injure players when China faces Japan as well."
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