Hong Myung-bo Addresses Three-Back Defense Controversy: ‘We Are Prepared to Use Both Three-Back and Four-Back Tactics

Hong Myung-bo, head coach of the South Korean national football team, has directly addressed the ongoing debate over his three-back defensive setup ahead of the 2026 World Cup.

Under Hong’s leadership, South Korea has been drawn into Group A alongside hosts Mexico, South Africa, and the Czech Republic. All three group-stage matches will be played in Mexico. With the tournament kicking off in just a month, Hong sat down for an interview with KBS to discuss the team’s preparations.

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The biggest concern remains the defense. A 4-0 defeat to Ivory Coast in March was particularly damaging, and a 0-1 loss to Austria further raised doubts. The three-back system has reportedly caused confusion among players.

Hong explained his tactical flexibility: “From my World Cup experience, relying on just one formation can be difficult. Even though we’ve had limited time, we have been practicing both three-back and four-back systems together, preparing to switch between them as needed. After the first match, we have a six-day break, allowing us to analyze the next opponent and adapt with a different structure.”

This suggests Hong intends to freely alternate between three-back and four-back formations depending on the opponent and match situation. However, critics argue that the three-back setup lacks the polished execution required for the World Cup. Even with a four-back system, South Korea’s defensive solidity is far from assured.

Attention also turns to possible surprise selections from the K-League. Hong noted, “I’ve been watching closely. Several players are performing well. We need to compare them with the existing squad and evaluate overall strength before announcing the final roster.”

Hong previously led South Korea at the 2014 World Cup in Brazil, a campaign that ended in disappointment. The team drew 1-1 with Russia, suffered a 2-4 defeat to Algeria, and lost 0-1 to Belgium, exiting in the group stage.

Reflecting on that experience, Hong said, “I have tasted failure. In 2014, we lacked a lot, and I lacked experience. Now, I am consulting with my coaching staff and considering two or three different ideas to make the best possible choices.” He expressed confidence in achieving better results this time.