The KFA said Bell had initially tested positive for the virus on November 6.

The positive test was conducted following the South Korean team’s return from away international matches in the United States.

Bell had entered self-isolation following the positive test.

He has now been hospitalised.

"Director Bell was hospitalszed (sic) at Namyangju Hyundai Hospital on the afternoon of the 11th at the recommendation of a public health centre during self-isolation after being tested positive for the second gene amplification (PCR) test conducted after the American away match," the KFA said.

The 60-year-old has overseen the South Korean women’s football team since 2019.

Bell is set to lead the team into the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) Women’s Asian Cup next year.

South Korea will face Japan, Vietnam and Myanmar in the Group C of the tournament, which will be held in India.

Hosts India will face China, Chinese Taipei and Iran in Group A, while Australia, Thailand, the Philippines and Indonesia will contest Group B.

Japan are the defending champions.

The tournament will take place from January 20 to February 6.

Five teams from the tournament will qualify for the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup, joining Australia who have qualified as co-hosts.

South Korea will be seeking to qualify for the FIFA Women’s World Cup for the fourth time after 2003, 2015 and 2019.

A fifth-place finish at the 2018 Asian Cup saw South Korea clinch the final AFC berth on offer.

South Korea are scheduled to play friendly matches against New Zealand on November 27 and 30 as their preparations continue for the Women’s Asian Cup.

It is possible a temporary replacement for Bell may be required to oversee the matches, depending on his health.