Chinese authorities detain South Korean midfielder Son Jun-ho on suspicion of taking bribe

China's Foreign Ministry revealed on Tuesday that South Korean international Son Jun-ho has been detained in Liaoning province on suspicion of accepting a bribe. Spokesperson Wang Wenbin confirmed that Son is currently under investigation and in custody. The South Korean consulate in Shenyang, the provincial capital, has been notified of the detention and granted access to Son in accordance with international treaties.

Son, who had been playing for the Chinese Super League's Shandong Taishan, is allegedly involved in bribery related to suspected match-fixing concerning coach Hao Wei, according to the South China Morning Post. While Wang did not disclose specific details regarding Son's detention, the Post reported that he was apprehended at an airport on Friday along with his family while attempting to depart from China.

South Korea's Foreign Ministry spokesperson, Lim Soo-suk, stated that the government is providing Son with necessary consular assistance through its local missions. However, he refrained from divulging further information concerning Son's situation due to privacy concerns.

Chinese soccer has long struggled with corruption issues involving coaches, team owners, players, referees, and sports officials. Despite the Chinese Communist Party leader Xi Jinping's commitment to transforming China into a soccer powerhouse, the efforts have faced setbacks. The men's national team currently ranks 81st globally, and financial challenges plague many teams. Corruption allegations have led to the arrest of numerous prominent figures, including former national coach Li Tie.

Son, aged 31, spent seven seasons with South Korea's Pohang Steelers and Jeonbuk Hyundai Motors before joining Shandong Taishan in 2021 under a four-year contract, as reported by transfermarket.com. He has represented South Korea in 18 matches, including the 2022 FIFA World Cup held in Qatar.

Also read: Releasing audio of VAR calls to become more common from next season - Howard Webb