South Korean coach Kim Sang‑sik, who has led the Vietnam national football team since May 2024, travelled to Busan after the ASEAN Cup 2026 concluded to be with his ailing father. Kim Jong‑won, aged 84, died on 12 September 2026 in his hometown. The coach had informed Vietnam Football Federation (VFF) President Trần Quốc Tuấn of his father's health condition during a post‑tournament meeting, and the president urged him to arrange a swift return to Korea. Kim was able to spend the final moments with his father before the passing.
President Trần, on behalf of the VFF Executive Committee and its Standing Committee, expressed deep sympathy to Kim and his family. Fans on the VFF’s official fan page also sent messages of support. The funeral will be held at the Inje University Haeundae Paik Hospital funeral home in Busan’s Haeundae district. A viewing in a special VIP room is scheduled for 17:00 on 13 September, with the burial ceremony set for 05:30 on 15 September, following traditional rites.
Kim, who rarely discusses his private life, had devoted himself entirely to the Vietnamese side, guiding the team to two ASEAN Cup titles, two Southeast Asian championships and an Asian U‑23 championship. He recently revealed that he and the players were away from their families for nearly two months to compete in the tournament. With the FIFA schedule for the 2026 ASEAN Cup released on 11 September, Vietnam will assemble on 21 September and depart for Indonesia on 22 September. Subsequent friendlies are planned against Taiwan and Kyrgyzstan in November, followed by preparations for the 2027 Asian Cup. The coach now intends to pause his duties temporarily to focus on his family during this difficult period.