According to Yonhap on May 21, Son Woong-jung received a three-month suspension from a regional football association, barring him from participating in any matches or activities under the Korea Sport Council. He is also the director of the SON Football Academy, where the incidents took place.

The Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province Football Association’s Sports Fairness Committee imposed the disciplinary action after an investigation by the Center for Sports Ethics under the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism.

In addition to Son Woong-jung, another unnamed coach from the academy was suspended for three months.

Son Heung-yun, who serves as head coach at the academy, received a six-month suspension. The association acknowledged his actions but stated the incident appeared to be an “impulsive act with exceptional mitigating circumstances.”

All three individuals involved have appealed the disciplinary actions.

Typically, disciplinary actions are put on hold during the appeals process. However, in cases involving violence or human rights violations, such as this one, the penalties remain in effect during the review, Joongang Daily reported.

The controversy started during a training camp in Okinawa, Japan, in March 2024, where Son Heung-yun reportedly struck a young player on the thigh with a corner flagpole after a match. The incident left the player injured and his family later reported other harsh measures taken by Son Heung-yun.

Son Woong-jung was also accused of verbally abusing the same player during basic exercises at the camp. Another coach, un to the Son family, was accused of repeatedly striking the player on the buttocks and calves, pulling his hair and hitting his head while in the academy campus. In July 2024, both men were summoned in connection with the abuse allegations.

In October, the Chuncheon District Court fined all three individuals 3 million won ($2,150) each and ordered them to complete a 40-hour child abuse treatment program for violating the Child Welfare Act.

While his family faces disciplinary action, Son Heung-min has also dealt with his personal issues. Earlier this year, he was the target of a blackmail attempt by a woman who falsely claimed she was pregnant with his child. Son admitted to having a relationship with the woman but denied any paternity.

Despite the turmoil outside of football, Son captained Tottenham Hotspur to victory in the Europa League final, in a 1-0 win over Manchester United on May 21 in Spain. After the match, the South Korea captain got emotional as he embraced his father in the stands.