South Korean Soccer Star Son Jun-ho Claims Coerced Confession in Chinese Match-Fixing Scandal

South Korean soccer player Son Jun-ho has tearfully denied accusations from Chinese authorities that he was involved in match-fixing and bribery. At a press conference on Wednesday, Son asserted that his confession to these charges was made under duress and is not reflective of the truth.

The Chinese Football Association (CFA) recently imposed lifetime bans on 38 players, including Son, and five officials following a two-year investigation into corruption and match-fixing. Son, who previously played for Shandong Taishan FC in the Chinese Super League, was detained in China for nearly 10 months before being released and returning to South Korea in March.

Son broke down in tears as he explained that his confession was coerced through threats, including one against his wife. He stated, “I was threatened that if I didn’t accept the charges, my wife would be arrested and investigated, too.” Son emphasized that he never participated in match-fixing and that the only evidence against him is his false confession.

During his detention, Son was not physically mistreated, though he described the conditions as harsh. He had agreed to remain silent about his detention as part of his release agreement but felt compelled to speak out after being included in the recent bans.

The CFA has not yet responded to Son’s allegations, and inquiries to the General Administration of Sport of China and other relevant authorities have not been answered. Three former Chinese internationals, Jin Jingdao, Guo Tianyu, and Gu Chao, were also among those banned following the investigation.

Now signed with South Korean club Suwon FC, Son expressed his hope to continue his soccer career despite the ongoing controversy.