Ulsan HD will host Gangwon FC at home, where they are bidding to secure the league title early.Ulsan will face Gangwon on November 1st at 7:30pm at Ulsan Sports Complex in the 36th round of the 2024 Hana Bank K League 1 season.After 35 games, Ulsan currently top the table with 65 points (19 wins, 8 draws, 8 losses), closely followed by second-place Gangwon on 61 points. This match is being dubbed the “true final” as Ulsan seeks to defend its throne.If Ulsan secure victory, they will clinch their third consecutive league title and the coveted “fifth star,” regardless of the results in their two remaining games.The team’s morale is at its peak. Ulsan kept control of the title race with a 2-0 win in the 182nd East Coast Derby against Pohang Steelers on the 27th. The day before, Gangwon had closed the gap to one point with a 1-0 win over Gimcheon Sangmu. Undeterred, Ulsan played confidently and decisively, turning the East Coast blue with their unique brand of football.Ulsan’s unbeaten streak now extends to eight games (6 wins, 2 draws). In the Pohang match, Ko Seung-beom (26 games, 3 goals, 2 assists), known as Ulsan’s “Gennaro Gattuso”, scored the opening goal with a tenacious finish from a Ludwigson cross. This marked his second goal against Pohang, following his debut free kick goal on June 30th.Ulsan’s star striker Joo Min-kyu (31 games, 9 goals, 4 assists) also broke his scoring drought with a clean finish from Bojanic’s pass in the 19th minute of the second half, his first goal since scoring against FC Seoul on July 13th.Reflecting on his performance, Joo said, “I feel sorry for my teammates who have been defending and making sacrifices for the team. I believe that if I had converted more chances, we would have more points by now. This is my first goal since coach Kim Pan-gon arrived, and I felt I owed the team.” He added, “If I can score the goal that secures the title, it would erase all the struggles of this year. I am determined to score plenty more in the remaining games to bring joy to the coach, my teammates, and our fans.”This matchup pits attack against defense. Ulsan, on an eight-game unbeaten streak, have kept clean sheets in six of those games, with the only exceptions being high-scoring games such as the 5-4 match against Pohang on August 31st and the 2-1 win over Gimcheon Sangmu on October 6th. Ulsan lead the league with just 36 goals conceded across 35 games. Defenders Kim Young-kwon and Kim Kee-hee kept the back line solid in the Pohang game, and goalkeeper Jo Hyeon-woo, a strong MVP candidate, was outstanding, making five saves. Jo’s record of 36 goals conceded and 14 clean sheets in 35 games underscores his status as the league’s top goalkeeper.With Joo Min-kyu back in form, Ulsan’s attack is expected to regain its edge. Ulsan ranks second in team goals with 55, just behind Gangwon (60 goals, 50 conceded). If Joo and Yago (29 games, 12 goals, 2 assists) continue performing well, Ulsan’s offensive power will be formidable. Gangwon, meanwhile, benefit from their young talent, including rising star Yang Min-hyeok (35 games, 11 goals, 6 assists), who is set to join Tottenham Hotspur next season and who scored the winning goal in their latest match. Ulsan youth academy graduate Lee Sang-heon (34 games, 12 goals, 6 assists) is also a key player to watch. Ulsan will need their defense to be especially solid in this match.Ulsan have won two of their three encounters with Gangwon this season. On April 12th, they defeated Gangwon 4-0 with goals from Joo Min-kyu (2), Lee Dong-gyeong, and Um Won-sang. They lost 1-0 in the away match on May 19th but secured a 2-0 victory at home on September 13th with goals from Kang Yun-gu and Ataru. Ludwigson, recently back from injury, is in excellent form and provided assists in both of Ulsan’s previous wins over Gangwon. Ulsan have dominated both the recent matchups (8 wins, 2 losses) and the all-time record (28 wins, 5 draws, 4 losses) between these two sides.Avoiding complacency is crucial for Ulsan. Securing an early league victory would allow the team to focus on other upcoming challenges, including the AFC Champions League Elite (ACLE) league stage and the Korea Cup final against Pohang on November 30th at Seoul World Cup Stadium.Head-coach Kim Pan-gon pledged to win the game, saying, “Rather than viewing the Gangwon game as the last, we should approach each match with a determination to win. As it’s a home game, we must win, but there’s no need to feel the pressure. With the fans’ support, we’ll aim for a great result.”

2024-10-31UHFC29

Ulsan HD welcome Gangwon FC into the tiger’s lair as they aim to reclaim the lead of the title race.Ulsan will face Gangwon in Round 30 of the 2024 Hana Bank K League 1 at Munsu Football Stadium on September 13th at 7:30 PM.After 29 games, Ulsan currently find themselves in 2nd place with 51 points, having recorded 15 wins, 6 draws, and 8 losses. Although they are level with Gangwon on 51 points, they trail due to having scored 5 fewer goals, with 48 goalsto Gangwon's 53. A victory in this match would see them rise to the top of the league. It is a crucial 6-point game that could significantly impact the title race this season.During the recent international break, Ulsan had the most players called up among the K League teams—five in total (Jo Hyeon-woo, Kim Young-gwon, Lee Myung-jae, Jung Woo-young, and Joo Min-kyu)—for the 2026 FIFA World Cup Asian third-round qualifiers against Palestine and Oman. Nevertheless, the team has thoroughly prepared for the match against Gangwon, based around the players who stayed behind.Under the leadership of head coach Kim Pan-gon, Ulsan have had a successful month. They provided their new manager with a debut win in his first game, a 1-0 victory over Daegu FC on August 10th. They also secured a thrilling 5-4 win against Pohang Steelers in an epic East Coast Derby on August 31st. Over the course of six matches (four K League 1 games and two Korea Cup semi-final matches), Ulsan have been cruising with 4 wins, 1 draw, and just 1 loss. While competing in both tournaments, their dominant and proactive style of play is gradually taking shape. Having reached the Korea Cup final for the first time in four years, Ulsan now have their sights set on taking top spot in the league.The match is also being billed as the 'Yago Derby'.Yago (11 goals, 2 assists) played for Gangwon in the first half of the season before moving to Ulsan on July 9th. After some initial struggles following his transfer, he found his form just before the break. He scored his debut goal in the first leg of the Korea Cup semi-final against Gwangju FC on August 21st. Since then, he has been on a scoring streak, netting goals in three consecutive matches, including in Round 28 of K League 1 against Gwangju and Round 29 against Pohang. Fans are eager to see if he will deliver a decisive blow to his former club, Gangwon.Another exciting highlight is the emergence of the ‘game-changer’ that Ulsan had long been waiting for—the Georgian star, Arabidze. He got warmed up by coming off the bench in the second half during the K League 1 Round 27 match against Suwon FC on August 18th and the first leg of the Korea Cup semi-final against Gwangju on August 21st. Then, on August 31st against Pohang, he shone brightly, scoring a superb left-footed free-kick goal and a curling shot inside the penalty box in the first half. With this, Ulsan have added another powerful weapon to their arsenal.Ulsan boast a strong historical record against Gangwon with 27 wins, 5 draws, and 4 losses. Last season, they had 2 wins and 1 loss, while this season they have 1 win and 1 loss. The team aims to secure a victory in this match to maintain momentum heading into the first match of the AFC Champions League Elite (ACLE) league stage against Kawasaki Frontale (Japan).

2024-09-10UHFC296

Ulsan HD pulled off a thrilling victory tobeat Pohang Steelers.In the 29th round of the 2024 Hana Bank K League 1 season, which kicked off at Munsu Football Stadium at 7pm on the 31st, Ulsan secured a hard-fought 5-4 victory in the 181st East Coast Derby. Goals from Arabidze (2), Yago, Ludwigson, and Kim Young-gwon gave Ulsan the edge over Pohang, who scored their goals through Hong Yoon-sang, Jorge, EoJeong-won, and Lee Tae-seok.The win sees Ulsan go level on points with 1st placed Gangwon FC,with 51 points from15 wins, 6 draws, and 8 losses. Ulsan sit second due to goals scored, with 48 goals, 5 behind Gangwon who have scored 53.Home team Ulsan lined up in a 4-4-2 formation. Yago and Kang Yun-gustarted up front together, with Ludwigson, Ko Seung-beom, Jung Woo-young, and Arabidze in midfield. The back four consisted of Lee Myung-jae, Kim Young-gwon, Lim Jong-eun, and Yun Il-lok, with Jo Hyeon-woo guarding the goal.Away side Pohang also adopted a 4-4-2 formation. An Jae-joon and Baek Sung-dong led the attack, supported by Hong Yoon-sang, Oberdan, Han Chan-hee, and Jeong Jae-hee in midfield. Wanderson, Jeon Min-gwang, Min Sang-gi, and EoJeong-won were tasked with defense, while Hwang In-jae was in goal.The match started fiercely from the outset, with Ulsan striking the first blow. In the 4th minute, Jung Woo-young played a pass forward in the Pohang half andKo Seung-beom was fouled by Han Chan-heewhile attempting to receive it at the top of the box. A free-kick was awarded, and in the 5th minute, Arabidze curled a left-footed effort into the net for the opening goal.Pohang quickly retaliated. In the 9th minute, Jeong Jae-hee broke through Ulsan's defensive line and cut the ball back from near the goal line. Hong Yoon-sang rushed in to level the score with a left-footed shot.Both teams continued to exchange blows. As time went on, Ulsan increased their offensive pressure. In the 17th minute, Ulsan’s Yun Il-lok dribbled towardsthe arc and unleashed a left-footed shot, which was comfortably saved by Pohang's goalkeeper Hwang In-jae. In the 23rd minute, Ulsan launched a counterattack, with Ko Seung-beom attempting a powerful long-range shot from outside the arc. Hwang In-jae parried the ball, and Yago pounced on the rebound but put his effort over the bar.Pohang's offensive momentum waned, and Ulsan dominated the game from the middle of the first half. In the 36th minute, after receiving a pass from Kang Yun-gu, Arabidze broke into the Pohang penalty box and slotted home with a low left-footed shot. However, in the 40th minute, multi-goal hero Arabidzewent down in pain and, after being checked off the pitch, returned to the game. Ulsan ended the first half with the lead.At the start of the second half, Ulsan made a double substitution, with Um Won-sang and Atarucoming on for Arabidze and Kang Yun-gu. Pohang replaced Han Chan-hee with Kim Jong-woo.In the 57th minute, Ulsan extended their lead. Ko Seung-beom evadeda defender inside the Pohang penalty box and delivered a left-footed cross, whichYago calmly slotted in from close range with his left foot. Kang Min-woo then came on for Lim Jong-eun in the 58th minute.Pohang tried to change the game in the 60th minute, bringing on Jorge and Lee Tae-seok for Jeong Jae-hee and An Jae-joon.However, the flow of the game remained with Ulsan. In the 78th minute, a mishit kick allowed Ulsan's Um Won-sang to take a left-footed shot. In the next play, a similar error saw the ball fall to Ludwigson, who scored with a composed right-footed finish from the corner of the arc. Ludwigson was then substituted forLee Chung-yong.Pohang refused to give up and, in the 83rd minute, Jorge broke through by himself and scored with a left-footed shot past Ulsan goalkeeper Jo Hyeon-woo.Ulsan pushed forward again. In the 87th minute, back-to-back shots by Ataru and Lee Myung-jae inside the Pohang penalty box were saved by goalkeeper Hwang In-jae. From the resulting corner, Ataru'sflick-on found Kim Young-gwon, who sealed the result with a headed goal.Pohang demonstrated theirtenacity by scoring two consolation goals. In the 89th minute, EoJeong-won broke intothe area and scored. In the 2nd minute of injury time, Lee Tae-seok's left-footed strike brought Pohang back to within one goal of Ulsan. However, Ulsan held firm against the lateonslaught to claim the victory.

2024-09-03UHFC167

Ulsan HD successfully advanced from the Korea Cup semifinals after a home draw with Gwangju FC.Goals from Lim Jong-eun and Matheus helped Ulsan to a 2-2 draw with Gwangju in the second leg of their 2024 Hana Bank Korean Cup semifinal at Munsu Football Stadium, which kicked off at 7pm on the 28th.With this result, Ulsan advanced to the final with a 3-2 aggregate score over the two legs. This marks their first appearance in the final in four years, since finishing as runners-up in 2020. On the other side of the bracket, Pohang Steelers defeated Jeju United, setting up the first-ever "East Coast Derby" between Ulsan and Pohang in the Korea Cup final.Kim Pan-gon’s Ulsan lined up a 4-2-1-3 formation. Kim Min-woo, Joo Min-kyu, and Um Won-sang were positioned up front, supported by Ko Seung-beom directly behind them. Jung Woo-young and Matheus controlled the midfield, while Lee Myung-jae, Kim Young-gwon, Lim Jong-eun, and Yun Il-lok formed the back four. Jo Hyeon-woo guarded the goal.Lee Jung-hyo's Gwangju responded with a 4-4-2 formation. Beka and Shin Chang-moo led the attack as the two forwards, with Moon Min-seo, Lee Kang-hyun, Park Tae-jun, and Kim Han-gillined up in midfield. Lee Eu-ddeum, Ahn Young-gyu, Kim Gyeong-jae, and Cho Sung-gwon took charge of the defense, while Kim Kyeong-min guarded the goal.In the early stages of the first half, both teams fiercely contested for control of the match. As time went on, Ulsan began to take control. In the 12th minute, Um Won-sang used his speed to penetrate deep into Gwangju's penalty box and delivered a cross, earning a corner kick. In the 13th minute, Lim Jong-eun connected with Lee Myung-jae's corner kick, heading in from in front of the goal for his first goal of the season.Gwangju launched continuous counterattacks but couldn't break through Ulsan's tight defense. Ulsan then regained control of the attack. In the 32nd minute, Kim Min-woo attempted a cross, and Joo Min-kyu's left-footed curling shot from inside the penalty box narrowly missed the goal. In the 33rd minute, Yun Il-lok received Um Won-sang’s pass and sent a right-footed shot from the arc over the bar. In the 38th minute, Yoon Il-lok made a crucial tackle inside his own box to cut out a pass intended for Moon Min-seo. The first half ended with Ulsan leading after an intense battle.From the start of the second half, Gwangju showed their intent to get back into the match. Substitute Oh Hu-seong shook the net with a powerful right-footed long-range shot from the corner of Ulsan's arc in the 47th minute.Ulsan remained unfazed. In the 54th minute, Kim Min-woo delivered a cross, which Joo Min-kyu redirected in front of Gwangju’s goal. Matheus then chipped the ball over goalkeeper Kim Kyeong-min to score. Matheus celebrated by bowing deeply in front of the supporters.Ulsan gained momentum. In the 59th minute, Um Won-sang made a deep run into Gwangju’s box along the goal line and sent in a cross, but it was intercepted by goalkeeper Kim Kyeong-min. In the ensuing attack, Um Won-sang's powerful shot was blocked by a defender. In the 61st minute, Ulsan brought on Lee Chung-yong, Ataru, and Jang Si-young in place of Ko Seung-beom, Um Won-sang, and Yun Il-lok.In the 62nd minute, Gwangju brought on Gabriel and Yeo Bong-hun, with Lee Euddeum and Lee Kang-hyun making way.Ulsan created another promising opportunity in the 64th minute. During a counterattack, Joo Min-kyu made a cross-field pass to Lee Chung-yong but his chip shot from inside the penalty box grazed goalkeeper Kim Kyeong-min's hand and struck the goalpost.Following the corner kick, Kim Kyeong-min came off his line to punch the ball away. Jung Woo-young made an attempt to divert the ball with the inside of his foot, but it was deflected by Kim Kyeong-min's fingertips.Then Gwangju's offensive surge began. In the 69th minute, Gabriel penetrated Ulsan's penalty box and fired a shot that struck the goalpost. In the 70th minute, Gwangju substituted Shin Chang-mooforJeong Ji-yong.In the 73rd minute, Ulsan substituted Kim Young-gwonfor Kim Kee-hee. After successfully fending off several of Gwangju's attacks, Ulsan looked for an additional goal. In the 80th minute, Jang Si-young led a counterattack before passing the ball. Kim Min-woo attempted a left-footed shot inside Gwangju's box, but it was blocked by a defender. Kim Min-woo then collapsed in pain and was carried off on a stretcher. In the 82nd minute, Won Du-jae entered the field as he replaced Kim Min-woo.Gwangju, who had been waiting for their chance, scored the equalizer in the 89th minute. Oh Hu-seong infiltrated Ulsan’s penalty area and scored a solo effort with a right-footed shot.In stoppage time of the second half, Gwangju had a chance to take the lead but Gabriel's decisive header was saved by Jo Hyeon-woo. Gwangju launched a fierce attack to try to force extra time, but Ulsan held firm. Ulsan's strong defense earned them a draw and secured their place in the final.

2024-08-30UHFC146

Ulsan HD have signaled their intent to stage a second-half comeback with the signing of attacking midfielder Arabidze.Arabidze, the attacking midfielder from Georgia, is a player with football intelligence, ball skills, and goalscoring ability, and is expected to add potency to Ulsan's attack.Arabidzesaid, "I know that several Georgian players have played and are currently playing in the K League. I also know that Vako, who played here until last season, received a lot of love from the Ulsan fans and put in some great performances. These things serve as a greater motivation for me. While showing what I have is important, my ultimate goal is to adapt here, grow, and contribute to the team's success with good performances."Arabidze can play both wing forward positions and even serve as a second striker. At his previous club, Torpedo Kutaisi in Georgia, he has been the team's star playerin the first half of the season, scoring 5 goals and providing 6 assists in 14 league matches. Wearing the captain's armband, he excelled as a right wing forward and attacking midfielder, significantly contributing to the team's position as strong contenders in the title race.Arabidze began his football journey in the youth team of FC Lokomotive Tbilisi in Georgia, where his talent was quickly recognized, and made his debut in the Georgian second division with the same team in 2013 at the age of 16. Despite his young age, Arabidze impressed by scoring 6 goals in 4 league matches during his first season and continued to play for the team until 2015.Based on these performances, Arabidze signed with the prestigious Ukrainian club FC Shakhtar Donetsk in 2015. He quickly developed in the UEFA Youth League and made his debut for the professional team the same year he joined.In 2018, Arabidze transferred to CD Nacional in Portugal's top flight, where he appeared in 10 league matches in his first season. He then gained further experience playing in the Turkish and Russian leagues. In 2011, the final year of his contract, he returned to Georgia, where he captained FC Samtredia in the first division, scoring 3 goals and providing 1 assist in 15 league matches.Having established himself in the domestic league, Arabidze transferred to Torpedo Kutaisi in 2022. Over the course of two and a half seasons, he played 73 league matches, scoring 24 goals and providing 16 assists, becoming a key player for the team. Notably, in the 2023 season, he featured in 30 league matches, recording 14 goals and 7 assists, making him the team's top scorer and tying for second place in the league goalscoring charts.In addition, Arabidze has a solid record with the national team. He has progressed through almost all age-group teams, including U-16, U-17, U-19, and U-21, demonstrating his exceptional talent from an early age. In 2017, he made his debut for the senior national team, scoring 3 goals and providing 1 assist in a total of four matches, including World Cup qualifiers and friendlies.With his experience in international transfers, multiple championship wins, and his national team background, Arabidze is expected to play a key role in Ulsan's quest to reclaim the top spot in the second half of the season and secure a third consecutive title.Meanwhile, Arabidze will join the team’s training starting from the 31st (Wednesday), aiming to adapt to the team as quickly as possible and to be brought intogames. He is expected to wear the number 9 jersey.

2024-07-31UHFC304

Ulsan HD has appointed Kim Pan-gon as the club's twelfth head coach.Kim Pan-gon, who is already well-known in the football world as a former player, coach and administrator, has taken the helm of Ulsan.Kim has demonstrated his leadership over the past 20 years by alternating between managing domestic club teams and national teams of other countries. This year, he will make his K-League head coaching debut with his former team, Ulsan.Sharing his thoughts on his appointment, Kim Pan-gon said, "I will present a game model that suits Ulsan’s current situation and strengths, and establish a unique playing style to quickly ensure performance and results".Kim added, "This is my first time as a head coach in the K-League. I feel both nervous and excited. Although it feels like it’s been a long journey to get here, I want to give a sufficiently mature performance to the Korean football fans."Ulsan Football Club considered not only Kim Pan-gon's managerial history but also the stories within it when making their decision to appoint him.The club highly valued Kim’s ability to not only achieve results but also foster the growth of individual players and lead the overall development of the team from a macro perspective. The club offered him the head coach position with the belief that he could prepare Ulsan for the Club World Cup next year and continue the club's upward trajectory.Kim Pan-gon already has experience of wearing the Ulsan uniform, having played for the club for four seasons from 1992 to 1996.In 1996, Kim left his mark as a member of the championship-winning team when Ulsan lifted their first league trophy, before moving to Jeonbuk Hyundai the following year. He then paused his playing career after the 1997 season.Kim Pan-gon took his first steps as a coach at Jungkyung High School in 1998. The following year, he led the team to victory in the Baekrokgi National High School Football Tournament, delivering the championship trophy just three years after the team's founding.Following this, Kim continued to lead on the professional stage. At the same time, he once again put on his football boots for a brief period.First, from 2000, he was a league runner-up and FA Cup winner while playing for Instant-Dictin the Hong Kong Pro League, before becoming player-coach at Double Flower. Based on this experience, he was appointed player-manager for Hong Kong Rangers FC, which was the weakest team in the league at the time. The result was a great success. In his first year, he led the team, previously considered the weakest, to first place in the first half of the season. He was named in the league's Best XI as both the best manager and player of the season.In 2005, Kim Pan-gon made a triumphant return to South Korea and began his career as a professional coach with Busan I'Park. Initially appointed as assistant coach, he served as both assistant coach and acting head coach until 2008, playing the role of both a leader and a pillar for the team.In 2008, Kim returned to Hong Kong as the head coach of the South China team, achieving victory in the league and reaching the AFC Cup semi-finals. Based on these successes, the following year, as well as being head coach of his club team, he was appointed head coach of the national team and the U-23 age group team.Until 2010, Kim Pan-gon concurrently led South China, the Hong Kong national team, and the U-23 team, securing a victory over North Korea in the EAFF second round qualifier and winning the gold medal at the East Asian Games.Following a brief stint as assistant coach at Gyeongnam FC, Kim Pan-gon returned to Hong Kong in 2012. He resumed his role as the national team coach while also serving as a director, establishing a system for the age group national teams, and continued to build his coaching legacy.In 2018, Kim, recognized for his extensive football knowledge, continuous player development, and administrative abilities, temporarily set aside his coaching duties and returned to his home country to build his administrative career. He took on the role of Chairman of the National Team Selection Committee at the Korea Football Association, where he contributed to developing a long-term roadmap for the advancement of Korean football.In 2022, Kim Pan-gon left his office and returned to the field. Appointed as the new head coach of the Malaysian national team, he achieved significant success within five months. During the third round of the 2023 AFC Asian Cup qualifiers, he secured Malaysia's place as runners-up in Group E, leading the team to their first automatic qualification for the Asian Cup in 43 years.With this, Kim Pan-gon concluded his nearly 28-year journey as a player, coach, and administrator, and has now returned to his former team.Kim Pan-gon will return to Korea tomorrow, Monday 29th, and join Ulsan Football Club to start coaching the players. He will hold an inauguration press conference at 11 a.m. on Monday, August 5th, at the first-floor auditorium of the Asan Institute for Policy Studies in Seoul. Furthermore, his official K-League head coaching debut will take place on Saturday, August 10th, in the 26th round of the Hana Bank K-League 1 againstDaegu FC at Munsu Football Stadium.<Ulsan HD FC’s 12th Head Coach Kim Pan-gon’s Inauguration Press Conference Announcement>■ Date and Time: Monday, August 5th, 2024, at 11:00 AM■ Location: 1st Floor Auditorium, Asan Institute for Policy Studies (11 Gyeonghuigung 1-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul)■ Application Information:- Media coverage applications can be submitted from noon on Monday, July 29th, through the K-League Information Support System (press.kleague.com).■ Notes:- This press conference will be conducted in accordance with the K-League Media Guidelines, and only media registered with the Korea Professional Football League can apply for coverage.- Live broadcasting of this press conference by media outlets is not permitted. Thank you for your understanding.

2024-07-29UHFC198

Another national team player from Ulsan will wear the Ulsan HD uniform.Ulsan have signed veteran national team defensive midfielder Jung Woo-young.Jung Woo-young was born in Nam-gu, Ulsan, and grew up playing football at Haksung High School, also in Nam-gu. He began his professional career in 2011 with Kyoto Purple Sanga in the J. League in Japan. He continued to prove himself on the East Asian stage by playing for Jubilo Iwata and Vissel Kobe in the J. League, and Chongqing Lifan in the Chinese Super League until the 2018 season. Notably, he accomplished an impressive feat in his first season in the Chinese League in 2016by playing every minute of all 30 league matches.Based on these performances, Jung Woo-young rightfully earned a place in the squad for the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia. At the peak of his powers, Jung participated in all three group stage matches, demonstrating his exceptional playmaking sense by providing a defensive screen to help Son Heung-min score against Mexico, and he played a key role alongside Kim Young-gwon in keeping a clean sheet against Germany. His impressive performances on the international stage were enough to make a name for himself beyond Asia.Having proven himself on the global stage beyond East Asia, Jung Woo-young’s next destination was Al Sadd SC in Qatar. The transfer turned out to be a great success.In Jung Woo-young’s first season in Qatar, he was joined by Xavi Hernández, who was already a star player at Al Sadd, and Gabi Fernández, who also transferred to the team that same season. Playing alongside these world-class midfielders, Jung Woo-young helped lead the team to the league title in his debut season (2018-19), and in the 2020-21 and 2021-22 seasons, he played a key role in the team’s unbeaten league victories, which elevated both his career and market value. By the end of the 2022-23 season, Jung hadbeen a major player for Al Sadd for a total of five seasons, winning three league titles and two Amir Cup trophies, and concluded his time in Qatar.However, Jung Woo-young’s quest to conquer Qatar continuedas a national team player. Drawing on his overseas career and experience, he played a central role for South Korea in the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar. He appeared in all three group stage matches, contributing to midfield coordination and defensive reinforcement, and was a key player in South Korea’s advancement to the Round of 16. Moreover, he countered concerns about his activity levels and stamina by averaging over 10 kilometers of running per game throughout the group stage.Jung Woo-young’s next challenge was also in the Middle East, this time in Saudi Arabia. Joining Al-Khaleej in the Saudi Pro League, he shone like a gem of the desert in his new team. In his first season with the team in the 2023-24 season, he appeared in a total of 31 league matches, establishing himself as a key player. Versatile in his role, he played both as a center-back and a defensive midfielder, securing victories against star-studded teams like Al-Hilal and Al-Nassr.Jung Woo-young is known for his high work rate, build-up play, and exceptional defensive dueling ability. Additionally, his experience from winning titles in top leagues and his veteran status in international matches are expected to be a tremendous asset for Ulsan as they aim for a third consecutive K League title. Furthermore, having served as a dedicated set-piece taker in his previous teams and demonstrated his long-range shooting skills, Jung is also expected to provide an additional attacking option for Ulsan.Most of all, while Jung Woo-young excels in his primary position as a defensive midfielder, he is also capable of playing as a center-back when necessary, making him a crucial asset for Ulsan as they prepare for the AFC Champions League elite stage and the Korea Cup.Having graduated from Haksung High School in Nam-gu, Ulsan in 2007, Jung Woo-young is now returning to Ulsan after nearly 17 years. He said, ‘Ulsan is my hometown. Rather than simply hearing that I have returned in glory, I am more excited to prove myself and enjoy myself in front of the Ulsan citizens. I know that Ulsan fans have been waiting for me for a long time, and I am equally excited to play in the K League and eager to prepare well and show what I can do. I am looking forward to greeting the Cheoyong Warriors (Ulsan Supporters Club) at Munsu Football Stadium as soon as possible.’on: Tae-hwa-gang Ecological Center in Ulju-gun, Ulsan Metropolitan City(The photo shoot connects the ‘salmon,’ a representative species of migratory instincts, with ‘Jung Woo-young,’ who is returning to his hometown after about 17 years. The official shoot takes place at the Taehwagang Ecological Center, a landmark representing Ulsan Metropolitan City and the largest natural environment, where the ecosystem of Taehwagang River is explained and exhibited. The shoot features Jung Woo-young alongside juvenile salmon, which will be released into the Taehwagang River in February of next year, in the salmon cultivation facility of the Ecological Center.)▪ Starting from this summer's transfer market, Ulsan HD plans to utilize generative AI technologies and programs to create and distribute even more innovative and eye-catching official images.

2024-07-09UHFC284

Ulsan HD beat Daegu FC at home.Darijan Bojanic’s first league goal for the club helped Ulsan to a 1-0 victory over Daegu FC in the 19th round of the 2024 Hana Bank K League 1, which kicked off at 7:30pm on the 26th at Munsu Football Stadium.With this, Ulsan returned to the top of the league with 38 points after securing their second consecutive win.The home team, Ulsan, lined up in a 3-4-3 formation. Kang Yun-gu, Joo Min-kyu, and Um Won-sang started up front, with Kim Min-woo, Bojanic, Matheus, and Choi Kang-min in midfield. Lee Myung-jae, Kim Kee-hee, and Kang Min-woo made up the three-man defense, with Jo Hyeon-woo as goalkeeper.The away team, Daegu, also lined up in a 3-4-3 formation. Park Yong-hui, Cesinha, and An Chang-min were the three up top, with Jang Sung-won, Park Se-jin, Hwang Jae-won, and Go Jae-hyeon supporting frommidfield. Go Myeong-seok, Park Jin-young, and Kim Jin-hyuk took charge of the defense, with Oh Seung-hoon guarding the goal.In the early stages of the match, both teams engaged in an intense probing battle. As time went on, Daegutargeted Ulsan's shaky defensewith their strong forward pressing. In the 7th minute, Cesinha attempted the first shot, but missed the goal.As the match entered the middle phase, Ulsan appeared to take control of the game. In the 33rd minute, Um Won-sang picked up the ball and tried to use his pace to penetrate Daegu's penalty area, but was denied by a defender. He then rushed in to intercept thedefender’s back pass to Daegu goalkeeper Oh Seung-hoon, but was unable to steal the ball.Aftera frustrating period, Ulsan began to showtheir class. In the 37th minute, Ulsan left-back Lee Myung-jaeplayed a precise left-footed pass forward from near his own touchline. Beating the offside trap, Bojanicbroke through the defense and successfully poked a right-footed effort past the goalkeeper.Daegu rallied with Cesinha leading thecharge, but Ulsan's sturdy defense held firm. In the 45th minute, Ulsan launched a swift counterattack, but Joo Min-kyu was brought down by Kim Jin-hyuk near the halfway line and the referee showed Kim the yellow card.Opportunities were scarce thereafter, and Ulsan ended the first half in front.At the start of the second half, Daegu made a double substitution, withBertola and Park Se-min coming on in place of Park Yong-hui and An Chang-min.Daegu also took the initiative. In the 52nd minute, a cross from the wing was headed towards Ulsan's goal by Park Se-min, which narrowly missed the target.In the 56th minute, Ulsan took off Kang Yun-gufor Jang Si-young and then, in the 64th minute, Ko Seung-beom and Yun Il-lok were brought on. Matheus and Choi Kang-min were the ones chosen to take a rest.In the 67nd minute, Ulsan earned afree kick in Daegu's territory. High-schooler Kang Min-woo, a defender who had participated in the attack, went down with cramp. After receiving treatment from the medical team, he returned to the field. In the 70th minute, Ulsan made both offensive and defensive changes, bringing on Kelvin and Lim Jong-eun. Kim Min-woo and Kang Min-woo made way. In response, Daegu introduced Edgar in the 71st minute, replacing Go Jae-hyeon.In the closing stages of the match, players from both teams gave it their all. Ulsan looked to seal the result with another goal, while Daegu fought intensely to level the score.Ulsan also pressed hard. In the 84th minute, Ko Seung-beom received Bojanic's pass and unleashed a left-footed shot towards the goal, which deflected off a defender. From the resulting corner kick, Bojanic played a pass to Um Won-sang, who collected the ball and sent in a low left-footed cross. On the opposite side, Kim Kee-hee connected with a powerful right-footed shot. Despite their continued attacks, Ulsan couldn't find the back of the net.Ulsan had one moreopportunity to clinch victory in stoppage time. Kelvin surged towards Daegu's goal, and used the outside of his foot to squeeze in an effort that narrowly missed the target. No more goals followed, and Ulsan ended the game victorious.

2024-06-29UHFC107

Born and raised in Ulsan, local boy Seol Young-woo is making the first transfer of his professional career by moving overseas.Seol Young-woo was born in May 1998 and played for Ulsan's youth teams, Hyundai Middle School (U15) and Hyundai High School (U18), before going on to Ulsan University, where he completed three years, and eventually joined the Ulsan first team in 2020.Seol Young-woo began to make a name for himself after making a surprise start in the 'East Coast Derby' against Ulsan's eternal rivals, Pohang Steelers, on Sunday, October 18th 2020. His flawless performance in the match not only secured a place in the regular starting line-up in his debut season, but also earned him the Young Player (Rookie of the Year) award. Playing both left and right full-back positions, he has established himself as a versatile defender for Ulsan and has grown into a core member of the team, playing a total of 120 K League 1 games for Ulsan, including this season. Over the past five seasons, he has scored five goals and provided 11 assists, becoming a fan favourite with his impeccable contributions to both attack and defence.Above all, having scored the equaliser that started the comeback against Pohang in the 36th round of last season’s K League 1, and the winning goal in the 38th and final round against Jeonbuk Hyundai, he has become the fans’ undisputed ‘Seol Star’. Another highlight was his winning goal in the second leg of the 2023-2024 AFC Champions League Quarter Final against Jeonbuk, which signalled the beginning of a dramatic turnaround for Ulsan’s hopes of qualifying for the Club World Cup.Since last year, ‘Seol Star’’s talent and influence have extended beyond Ulsan and Asia, as he has been selected for the national team, proudly wearing the Korean flag on his chest. He made his A-match debut at right full-back in a friendly against El Salvador on June 20th, 2023 and was named as a wildcard in the final squad for the 2022 Asian Games in Hangzhou, where he was instrumental in South Korea's gold medal victory. There, he not only won gold, but also earned his exemption from military service, making him one of the top prospects in South Korean football.Seol Young-woo's international career didn't end there. He went on to play in every match of the 2023 AFC Asian Cup in Qatar, proving his worth to the whole nation. He played the full 90 minutes in all but one game, showcasing both his skill and stamina. Most notably, he capped off this showcase of his talent by assisting Cho Gue-sung’s second-half stoppage-time goal in the round of 16 match against Saudi Arabia.The South Korean international, who can play on both sides of the defence and join in the attack, began to attract interest from a number of clubs abroad earlier this year. Among those, Serbian SuperLiga side FK Crvena Zvezda had shown a keen interest in the player from the start of the year. After a series of offers and negotiations between the two clubs, the player and the clubs have reached an agreement. As a result, this summer's transfer window sees Seol Young-woo make his first professional transfer and first move abroad.Although it is true that the club has some concerns and apprehensions about transferring one of its most talented players, the Ulsan squad still contains youth team graduates Jang Si-young and Choi Kang-min, as well as Yun Il-lok, who has been contributing to the team's victories after his recent positional switch. After much deliberation, the club has made the decision to allow Seol Young-woo to make the next step in his career and to support the player's growth and development by agreeing to the transfer.While Ulsan can confirm that the terms and conditions of Seol Young-woo’s transfer to Zvezda exceed those of Zvezda’s previous offer last winter and recent media speculation, it has been mutually agreed between the two clubs that the exact terms of the deal will not be disclosed.Meanwhile, Seol Young-woo will participate in a farewell ceremony at Munsu Football Stadium during the Hana Bank K League 1 19th round match, scheduled to kick off at 7.30pm on Wednesday, June 26th, before traveling to Serbia to complete his medical and final signing procedures.

2024-06-24UHFC179

Ulsan HD defeated Gyeongnam FC on penalties at home.Ulsan drew 4-4 with Gyeongnam after 120 minutes of hard-fought action in the fourth round (Round of 16) of the 2024 Hana Bank Korea Cup, which kicked off at 7pm on June 19th at Munsu Football Stadium. In the ensuing penalty shootout, Ulsan triumphed 3-0 thanks to goalkeeper Moon Hyun-ho's heroic saves to advance to the fifth round (quarter-finals), where they will face Incheon United.The home team Ulsan played the zero-top card. Kim Min-hyeok started up front, with Kelvin and Lee Chung-yong on the left and right sides of the attack. Kim Min-woo, Lee Gyu-sung, Lee Jae-wook, and Choi Kang-min lined up in midfield, while Park Sang-jun, Lim Jong-eun, and Hong Jae-seok formed the back three. Moon Hyun-ho secured the rearguard.The away team Gyeongnam also lined up in a 3-4-3. Yoo Joon-ha, Cho Hyang-gi, and Cho Sang-jun started as a trio up top, with Lee Min-gi, Lee Min-hyeok, Do Dong-hyun, and Seo Jae-won providing support behind them. Park Jae-hwan, Kim Hyoung-won and Lee Kwang-seon made up the defence, with Goh Dong-min wearing the keeper’s gloves.Ulsan dominated possession early in the first half, but failed to create any decisive chances.After a tense opening 15 minutes, Gyeongnam struck first with a surprise goal. Cho Sang-jun dribbled through the Ulsan defence and found the net with a left-footed shot from just inside the arc.After conceding, Ulsan quickly regrouped and went on the attack. Gyeongnam focused on defence, forming a strong defensive block as Ulsan's attack intensified. After pouncing on a second ball, Lee Chung-yong's left-footed shot from inside the area deflected off goalkeeper Goh Dong-min and into defender Lee Min-gi. In the process, the referee pointed to the penalty spot and showed Lee the red card for using his left arm to deny a clear scoring opportunity. Lee Chung-yong took the spot kick and scored with a right-footed finish in the 42nd minute.The first half ended 1-1.At the start of the second half, Ulsan brought on Joo Min-kyu and Ataru and rested Kim Min-hyeok and Park Sang-jun. With the numerical advantage, Ulsan attacked strongly on several occasions.Gyeongnam responded with a triple substitution in the 60th minute, with Cho Hyang-gi, Seo Jae-won, and Do Dong-hyeon making way for Lee Jong-eon, Lee Jun-jae, and Kim Jin-rae. Ulsan bolstered their midfield with Bojanic taking the place of Lee Jae-wook, who headed back to the bench.In the 62nd minute, Gyeongnam took the lead again. Lee Min-hyuk beat four defenders at once in the Ulsan arc and drove into the box. As goalkeeper Moon Hyun-ho came out to narrow the angle, Lee successfully clipped a left-footed shot over him and into the goal.Ulsan resumed their attack. Chances for Kim Min-woo in the 66th minute and Lee Gyu-sung in the 67th both came to nothing. Eventually, Ulsan made a decisive substitution by bringing on Um Won-sang in the 68th minute, with Choi Kang-min leaving the field. Gyeongnam replaced the scorer of the first goal, Cho Sang-jun, with Seol Hyun-jin.Ulsan pushed hard for an equalizer and in the 73rd minute, Joo Min-kyu had two shots on goal blocked by the opposition defence. The team kept pounding away and were finally rewarded with the equaliser. In the 75th minute, Ataru received a pass from Bojanic and found the back of the net with a powerful left-footed mid-range shot.With the momentum in their favour, Ulsan went on the offensive and broke the deadlock in the 79th minute. Lee Gyu-sung played a cheeky pass with the sole of his foot inside the Gyeongnam penalty box, and Um Won-sang rattled the net with an instant right-footed shot. Having taken the lead, Ulsan brought off Kelvin in the 80th minute and introduced Yun Il-lok.Despite their numerical disadvantage, Gyeongnam did not give up. In the 84th minute, Lee Jong-eon equalised again with a right-footed shot from inside the Ulsan penalty area.Both teams did everything they could to win the game in normal time, but in the end neither side were able to find a winner in the 90 minutes, prompting extra time.Ulsan strengthened their defence at the start of the extra period with the introduction of veteran Kim Kee-hee. He replaced Hong Jae-seok, who was making his first start. Ulsan's continued to attack with their one-man advantage.However, Gyeongnam's fearsome backline was stronger. In the 12th minute of the first period of extra time, Seol Hyun-jin scored another goal with a left-footed shot from the arc in front of Ulsan’s goal. In response, Ulsan showed their determination to win by launching a wave of attacks, and eventually breached the defence to score. In the 10th minute of the second period, Kim Min-woo scored with a first-time shot from just inside the box after Goh Dong-min had punched away a cross.Despite Ulsan continuing to attack until the end of extra time, they were unable to find the back of the net, leading to a penalty shootout. In the shootout, other than Bojanic, Ulsan scored all of their penalties, with successful strikes from Joo Min-kyu, Um Won-sang and Ataru. In addition, goalkeeper Moon Hyun-ho saved all three of his opponent's spot kicks to secure a 3-0 victory for Ulsan.

2024-06-21UHFC244