The South Korean forward was involved in an incident during Schalke's 2-0 DFB-Pokal defeat earlier in the week, when he pushed the fourth official and a member of his own club's medical staff while trying to return to the pitch.
Hwang addressed the incident after Schalke suffered another 2-0 defeat, this time against RB Leipzig in the Bundesliga on Saturday. He insisted that he had reacted because he felt the fourth official had approached him too aggressively.
“He came towards me very aggressively and was then too close to me. That is the only reason I pushed him away – because he was too close. I wasn't aggressive, I didn't really push or hit him. It was similar with the physio,” Hwang said, according to the WAZ.
The 30-year-old also indicated that the matter had been dealt with internally, with the incident discussed in front of the squad and coaching staff.
“The coach addressed the situation in front of all the players and the staff. It is now over,” he added.
Hwang will now be hoping to turn his attention back to improving Schalke's fortunes on the pitch. The club's attacking struggles have become a growing concern, with the team finding goals difficult to come by in recent matches.
The forward accepted that he shares responsibility for the lack of goals, rather than attempting to place the blame elsewhere.
“As a striker, I also carry part of the responsibility. I work hard, and my team-mates do too. That's why I think it will work out. I will stay focused and simply continue to work hard,” he said.
Schalke's defeat to Leipzig was their third consecutive loss in all competitions, following the cup disappointment against Dresden. The latest setback also left Hwang and his team-mates with further questions to answer about their attacking output.
For Hwang, the immediate priority is to put the controversy behind him and contribute more in front of goal. His comments suggest the club has dealt with the disciplinary issue internally, but Schalke need a response on the pitch if they are to arrest their disappointing run.