South Korean soccer school abuse claims highlight changing attitudes

LONDON -- Allegations of physical abuse against a famous youth soccer academy in South Korea are not only making international headlines but highlighting changing attitudes toward corporal punishment in the country.

The Son Football Academy was set up in 2021 in the provincial city of Chuncheon by the father of international soccer superstar Son Heung-min. But in March, the senior Son and two of his coaches were accused by the parents of a young player of actions including striking him with a corner flag during a camp held in Japan.