Controversy over Arsenal striker continues

South Korean legend Cha Bum-Kun has apologised after his defence of Park Chu-Young’s decision to delay his military service were criticised.

Arsenal’s 26-year-old striker caused a stir in South Korea recently when he confirmed he would avoid his mandatory military service thanks to a 10-year residency visa for Monaco.

Fans and journalists have been critical of Park’s decision to defer his service, claiming he had found a loophole and it set a bad example.

Korean national team coach Choi Kang-Hee opted last week not to comment on the situation either.

However, 121-time Korea international and former Bundesliga star Cha backed Park in a personal blog earlier this week.

“Can we not be generous to Park Chu-young?” the 58-year-old wrote.

“Somebody must have found a legitimate way (to avoid serving in the military).

“I have two sons so I fully understand the feelings of men having to serve in the military.”

Cha’s statement was criticised and he has now decided to say sorry for his comments. He said he realised the discussion was about the ‘inequality of society in general’.

Park’s former national team-mate Lee Young-Pyo has been most vocal in support of the Arsenal man.

“It is not like he is totally evading,” Lee told The Korea Times.

“This is not about right or wrong. There is nothing Chu-Young can do for the country if he goes to serve immediately. He can do more for his country as a footballer.

“Those who are criticising should think for a moment. If they could lay the same blame on their younger brother who made the same decision, then they can go ahead. But if not, they shouldn’t.”