World Cup military row erupts as Son Heung-min and South Korea boycott media duties

A World Cup row has erupted involving Son Heung-min and South Korea after the squad reportedly decided to boycott domestic media interviews following comments about the former Tottenham star's military service.The controversy comes ahead of South Korea's crucial Group A showdown with Mexico, whose experienced manager Javier Aguirre has already warned his players about the threat posed by the national captain.According to reports in South Korea, members of the squad were angered by remarks allegedly picked up on a hot microphone after an open training session had concluded.The comments are said to have referenced Son's exemption from the majority of South Korea's mandatory military service, an issue that remains highly sensitive in a country that technically remains at war with North Korea. TRENDING Stories Videos Your Say One reporter was quoted as saying: He runs like an old general.Another allegedly remarked: This b*****d doesn't know the meaning of military.Further comments won't be repeated.The backlash has prompted South Korea's players to reportedly refuse interview requests from Korean journalists for the remainder of the tournament, despite FIFA regulations requiring players to make themselves available to the media before and after matches.Son was exempted from completing the standard 21 months of military service after helping South Korea win gold at the 2018 Asian Games.However, he still undertook three weeks of basic military training and later completed a substantial period of community service.The 33-year-old remains one of the most revered sporting figures in his homeland and is widely regarded as Asia's greatest footballer.Having previously inspired South Korea into the knockout stages of a World Cup, Son is hoping to repeat the feat in what could prove to be his final appearance at the tournament.LATEST SPORTS NEWS:Thomas Tuchel left furious after national anthem incident in England World Cup win over CroatiaCristiano Ronaldo was finished at the last World Cup and Portugal have bowed to him for too longThomas Tuchel spotted having heated row with England star during World Cup victory over CroatiaNow it is my dream to repeat that journey in what may well be my last World Cup, Son recently said.Perhaps go even further. Who knows?South Korea opened their campaign with victory over the Czech Republic, although Son was unable to find the net despite several promising opportunities.Mexico manager Aguirre is refusing to underestimate the former Premier League Golden Boot winner.Fresh from guiding Mexico to a win over South Africa in the tournament's opening match, the veteran coach immediately reminded his players about the danger posed by Son once celebrations inside the dressing room had subsided.Beware Son Heung-min, was reportedly among his first messages to the squad.Aguirre is taking charge of Mexico at a World Cup for the third time and knows the dangers of complacency, particularly against opponents capable of producing moments of individual brilliance.Mexico are expected to adopt the aggressive approach that overwhelmed South Africa in their opener, but Son's determination to respond to the growing controversy surrounding him could provide South Korea with additional motivation.With both nations winning their opening matches, the clash in Guadalajara could go a long way towards deciding which side finishes top of the group. Our Standards: The GB News Editorial Charter