Military Intervenes During World Cup Training; Drone Brought Down Immediately

An incident sparking espionage concerns occurred during Wednesday's training session, ahead of Korea's second match against host nation Mexico.

“Yesterday, during our training, a drone was flying in the sky, and we noticed it. Fortunately, it was just before we started practicing tactics, so it didn't significantly affect us. But it was crucial timing as we were preparing for the match. So, what happened was unfortunate,” said team coach Hong Myung-bo at a press conference.

According to Yonhap news agency, a security officer from the Korean team spotted the drone, which was then brought down by a Mexican military specialist. Two men suspected of operating the drone retrieved the device and fled the scene.

The Korea Football Association (KFA) reported the incident to FIFA and requested assurances that a similar situation would not recur.

A representative for Mexican authorities told the Associated Press that military forces used specialized equipment to detect an “unregistered drone” near the Korean camp, prompting them to “neutralize” the drone. It was not known if any arrests were made in connection with the incident.

However, he stated that several drones attempting to enter security zones around stadiums in Mexico City, Guadalajara, and Monterrey – the three host cities for the tournament in Mexico – as well as individual team camps and fan zones, had been neutralized in recent days. Drones are strictly prohibited near these facilities during the championship.

The match between Mexico and Korea in Guadalajara is scheduled for Friday night at 3:00 AM CET.