South Korea’s Women’s Football Federation announced on August 31 it is investigating claims that a female referee insulted former Chelsea midfielder Ji So-yun by saying she was menstruating during a WK League game [1, 2, 3].
The incident took place on August 28 during a match between Ji’s team, Suwon FC Women, and Seoul City Hall [1, 2, 3]. Ji, 35, confronted the referee after demanding a penalty and was booked following a dispute over the alleged comment [1, 2, 3].
Ji alleged over the officials’ communication system that the referee said, "She’s been touchy since the start, she must be on her period" [1, 2, 3]. However, the Korea Football Association refereeing department stated the word "period" was not used in radio communications and that the remarks were not specifically directed at Ji, according to broadcaster SBS [1, 2, 3].
The Korea Women’s Football Federation said the term used was "girl’s day," a euphemism for menstruation [1, 2, 3]. Suwon FC formally requested on August 30 that both the KWFF and KFA clarify the facts and take appropriate action regarding the incident [1, 2, 3].
The KWFF emphasized the issue concerns player dignity, respect among league members, and the fair operation of WK League matches. The federation said, "The federation’s position is that once the facts have been established necessary action should follow and practical measures should be introduced to prevent a recurrence" [1]. It added, "The federation considers the issue to be directly related not only to the dignity and respect of players, but also to mutual respect and trust among league members and the fair operation of WK League matches" [1].
The investigation remains ongoing as the federation reviews communications and statements related to the game on August 28.
