National soccer team coach Huh Jung-moo says he will not renew his coaching contract, which expires at the end of the 2010 World Cup.

In a news conference Friday, Huh said he made his decision early so that the Korea Football Association can proceed with the hiring of a successor.

Huh coached the national team for two years and six months, leading Team Korea to an appearance in the round of 16 at the South Africa World Cup.

Candidates to succeed Huh include the team’s chief assistant, coach Jung Hae-sung, and Olympic team coach Hong Myung-bo.