Gangwon FC is riding a remarkable wave of momentum in the 2025 K League 1 season, and fans are starting to wonder if last year’s historic highs might just be within reach again. On September 13, 2025, at the Gangneung Hi-One Arena, Gangwon FC delivered a thrilling 3-2 home victory over FC Seoul in Round 29 of the league. The win didn’t just electrify the home crowd—it also catapulted Gangwon into fifth place on the league table, with 11 wins, 8 draws, and 10 losses, now sitting on 41 points. With third-place Daejeon Hana Citizen falling to league leaders Jeonbuk Hyundai on the same day and remaining at 45 points, Gangwon has closed the gap to just four points. Suddenly, a push for the upper echelons of the table looks more than just a pipe dream.
But what’s been fueling Gangwon’s surge? The answer is a blend of defensive steel, tactical discipline, and a growing sense of belief. The team, led by coach Jeong Gyeong-ho, has quietly built a formidable unbeaten run. Since a 2-2 draw against Ulsan HD back in July, Gangwon has notched up six matches without a loss, including three straight wins. Their August was especially impressive, as the defense conceded zero goals across four games. Veteran goalkeeper Park Byeong-hoon, once a backup, has stepped up with calm authority, while center backs Kang Tun-ji and Shin Min-ha have formed a rock-solid partnership. Young talents like Song Jun-seok have added a burst of energy, giving the squad a well-balanced edge.
Yet, the September 13 clash with Seoul was all about offense. Gangwon didn’t just rely on their back line—they went toe-to-toe in attack. It was Lee Yoo-hyun who broke the deadlock in the 39th minute, capitalizing on a rebound from Mo Jae-hyeon’s shot to volley home the opener. The momentum kept building: just six minutes into the second half, Gangwon earned a penalty after drawing a foul during a corner kick sequence. Kim Geon-hee stepped up and coolly slotted the ball past the keeper, doubling the lead. Then, in the 54th minute, Lee Sang-heon unleashed a stunning strike to make it 3-0—a seemingly unassailable margin.
But Seoul wasn’t done yet. Goals from Cho Young-wook and Kim Jin-su narrowed the gap to 3-2, setting up a tense finale. Gangwon’s focus and grit were put to the test, but they held firm, preserving the one-goal lead to the final whistle. The home crowd erupted in celebration, recognizing not just the three points, but the character that’s become the team’s hallmark this season.
Coach Jeong Gyeong-ho was quick to credit his side’s collective effort and defensive organization. According to him, "Our defense has been the backbone of this run, but today the attack showed what it’s capable of. The players’ cooperation and tactical discipline have really improved." He also highlighted the contributions of recent signings like Mo Jae-hyeon and Kim Geon-hee, who have slotted seamlessly into the lineup, and the return of winger Kim Dae-won from military service, which has further bolstered the squad’s depth.
It’s not just the established players making a difference, either. The emergence of young prospects such as Song Jun-seok has injected fresh energy into the team, while Lee Sang-heon has shaken off a slow start to the season and is now finding his rhythm at just the right time. The team’s recent run of three consecutive one-goal victories is a testament to their concentration and resilience under pressure—qualities that are often the difference-makers in tight league races.
Gangwon’s schedule for the coming weeks offers further cause for optimism. Next up is a crucial match against Daegu FC, scheduled for September 14, 2025. With most upcoming opponents currently sitting in the lower half of the table—including Suwon FC, Daejeon, FC Anyang, and Daegu—the path to a coveted Final A spot looks promising. If Gangwon can maintain their current form, a climb even higher up the standings is within reach. The team’s immediate target is a place in Final A, but with momentum on their side, who’s to say another run at the top spots is out of the question?
Last season, Gangwon finished a club-best second place. While repeating that feat might seem ambitious, this campaign’s consistency and confidence suggest that lightning could strike twice. The club’s supporters, buoyed by the recent string of results, are daring to dream once more.
Yet, the journey hasn’t been without its challenges. On September 14, 2025, Gangwon defender Kang Yoo-jeong was at the center of controversy during a match at Seoul’s Yongsan Stadium. A violent tackle led to a straight red card and expulsion, highlighting ongoing disciplinary issues within the squad. The incident has prompted renewed scrutiny of the team’s on-field discipline. While coach Jeong Gyeong-ho has praised the tactical discipline and spirit of the team, this episode serves as a stark reminder that maintaining composure is just as crucial as tactical execution, especially as the stakes grow higher in the season’s final stretch.
The expulsion of Kang Yoo-jeong comes at a delicate time, with Gangwon’s next match against Daegu FC carrying significant implications for their league position. The coaching staff will need to address these disciplinary lapses promptly to ensure that the team’s strong run isn’t derailed by moments of individual error. As the season enters its decisive phase, every point—and every player—counts.
One thing’s certain: Gangwon FC’s blend of seasoned leadership, youthful exuberance, and tactical acumen has made them one of the most intriguing teams to watch in the 2025 K League 1 race. The squad’s recent performances have reignited hopes of another historic finish, and with a favorable schedule ahead, the stage is set for more drama and excitement. Can Gangwon keep their foot on the gas and surge even higher? With the league table tightening and every match taking on added significance, fans will be watching every kick, save, and tackle with bated breath.
As Gangwon prepares to face Daegu FC on September 14, all eyes will be on whether this resurgent side can maintain their winning ways and stay in the hunt for a top finish. The coming weeks promise plenty of twists, and if recent form is anything to go by, Gangwon FC is ready to seize every opportunity that comes their way.
