“Processing according to law”
“China is a country ruled by law Arrested on charges of taking bribes from non-public officials.”
While South Korean soccer team coach Jurgen Klinsmann urged China to release player Son Jun-ho, China stated that it was “processing the related case in accordance with the law.”
In response to a related question at a regular briefing on the 23rd, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maoning said, “The person in question (Son Jun-ho) was arrested on charges of bribery of non-state agents (public officials),” and added, “For specific developments in the case, please inquire with the responsible ministry.” “I suggest this,” he said.
Spokesperson Mao then emphasized, “China is a country ruled by law, and cases are handled strictly according to the law, while guaranteeing the various legitimate rights and interests of the parties in accordance with the law.”
Son Jun-ho, a member of the Chinese professional soccer team's Shandong Taishan team, was arrested while trying to return home from Shanghai Hongqiao Airport in May, and has since been detained in criminal custody and is being investigated by the Liaoning Province Chaoyang Public Security Bureau.
Chinese public security switched to a detention investigation when Son's criminal detention period expired last June.
Some Chinese media reported that Son Jun-ho may have been involved in former Shandong team coach Hao Wei's bribery or match-fixing incident during the 2021 Shandong transfer process.
The Korean national team defeated China 3-0 in the second match of Group C of the 2026 North and Central America World Cup Asia 2nd qualifying round held at the Universiade Sports Center in Shenzhen on the 21st.
Director Klinsmann entered Incheon International Airport on the 22nd and said, “I hope that the Chinese government will show leniency to Son Jun-ho, whose exact charges have not yet been revealed, so that he can meet his family as soon as possible. “I hope to spend Christmas with his family.” 스포츠토토맨