Profile: Jung Kyung-ho, Coach of Kangwon FC in the Korea Professional Football League
[MyDaily = Seoul World Cup Stadium, Reporter Choi Byung-jin] Coach Jung Kyung-ho of Kangwon FC was observed using a megaphone.
In a match played at the Seoul World Cup Stadium on the 26th, Kangwon FC was defeated 2-4 by FC Seoul during the 34th round of the 'Hana Bank K League 1 2025'.
Kangwon FC's defeat was particularly impactful, as the team had initially taken control in the first half. By applying pressing tactics and an organized offensive strategy, they hindered Seoul's ability to counter. Kim Gun-hee scored in the first half, and Mo Jae-hyun extended the lead with a penalty kick early in the second half.
The situation changed from the 27th minute of the second half onward, as Kangwon conceded three goals in a span of seven minutes. Lingard scored twice, Ryu Jae-moon equalized, and Chun Sung-hoon secured the win for Seoul in the closing moments.
Following the conclusion of the match, Kangwon's travelling supporters presented Coach Jung with a megaphone. This gesture was not solely a reaction to the loss against Seoul.
Kangwon FC has exhibited contrasting performances in recent matches, performing strongly in the first half but struggling in the second. Coach Jung's tactical approach has been effective in the first half, but the team's inability to maintain this in the latter stages has been a concern.
Kangwon FC/Korea Professional Football League
In the match against FC Anyang (Round 32), Kangwon led 1-0 until they allowed an equalizer late in the game. In a subsequent match against Daegu FC, they squandered a 2-0 lead, resulting in a 2-2 draw. Similarly, in the AFC Champions League Elite (ACLE) match against Vissel Kobe, a 3-0 half-time lead ended as a 3-3 draw. Despite a late victory via Kim Gun-hee's goal in extra time, these patterns of play led to a disappointing defeat against Seoul.
Kangwon supporters have shown dissatisfaction with these outcomes, prompting Coach Jung to address them via megaphone to express his apologies. During the post-match press conference, Coach Jung acknowledged the fans' disappointment, stating, "Their frustration is understandable, and I share responsibility. Improvement is necessary."
Addressing second-half performance remains a priority, but opinions vary regarding the symbolic 'megaphone' gesture. Last season, Kangwon achieved a runner-up finish and have maintained a top-three position in the ACLE with 6 points from 2 wins and 1 loss. A K League representative questioned whether the criticism Kangwon faces is proportionate to their performance and resources.
Jung Kyung-ho, Coach of Kangwon FC in the Korea Professional Football League
One reason for FC Seoul's successful comeback was the effectiveness of their substitutes. Kangwon's reliance on domestic players, particularly due to a lack of available foreign players like Gabriel, who was suspended, was evident. This situation raises the debate on the commendability of Kangwon's achievements with a mainly domestic roster. A league official remarked on Coach Jung's relative newness to the head coach position, suggesting a balanced perspective is warranted.
Coach Jung provided insight into his strategic considerations, revealing that he is continuously analyzing opponents, a task that affects his rest. He highlighted the progress achieved by Kangwon, being runners-up last year and reaching Final A this season. Understanding fans' desires for higher success, Coach Jung is committed to enhancing the team's second-half performances and called for collective support.