K-League Football

Well unfortunately Jeju United's first game of the season was a 1-0 loss to newcomers Gangwon FC, but I have some hope for their next match this coming Sunday against Gwangju. Here is a 2009 profile of each team:


Gwangju Samgmu Phoenix

Every season is tough for the military club which has to deal with losing half its team every season.

Arrivals: This season's big name is former international Choi Sung-kuk who arrives from Seongnam.

Prospects: For the south-western club, any position that isn't bottom is a success.

Coach: Lee Kang-jo

Stadium: Gwangju World Cup Stadium (44,118)

Jeju United

The islanders recovered somewhat after a slow start last season to finish firmly in mid-table. Coach Artur Bernardes hinted that he could help the club move up the table.

Departures: Romulo has gone to Busan while Cho Jin-soo is now an Ulsan player.

Arrivals: International defender Kang Min-soo is one of the more expensive signings of the winter. He will line up with national team mate Cho Hyong-yong. There are the usual couple of new Brazilians as well as the temperamental Bang Sung-hwan.

Prospects: Look for more mid-table consolidation.

Coach: Arthur Bernardes
Stadium: Seogwipo World Cup Stadium (42,256)

Over the past three seasons these teams have had some competitive rivalry. Jeju United has faired a bit better, but this season Gwanju Sangmu looks to be off on a good start with their 3-0 win last saturday, moving them into the 2nd spot of the 2009 K-League standings.