FC Seoul Triumphs Amid Fan Turmoil Over Ki Sung-yueng Transfer

On June 29, 2025, FC Seoul delivered a commanding 4-1 victory over Pohang Steelers at the Seoul World Cup Stadium in the 21st round of the Hana Bank K League 1, marking a significant moment in their season. This win was particularly notable as it was FC Seoul's first home triumph since March 29, 2025, snapping a long-standing drought that had weighed heavily on the team psychologically.

The match was charged with emotion and tension, not just because of the scoreline but due to the backdrop of FC Seoul legend Ki Sung-yueng's recent transfer to Pohang. The midfielder, who spent a decade with FC Seoul, confirmed his move to Pohang via social media on June 25, 2025. His departure stirred deep disappointment among Seoul fans, who expressed their frustration vocally throughout the game.

Despite the team's dominant display on the pitch, the atmosphere was far from celebratory for the home side's supporters. Fans directed chants of "Kim Ki-dong out!" at FC Seoul's head coach, Kim Ki-dong, holding him and the club responsible for the loss of their beloved star. The chants echoed throughout the stadium, underscoring the fans' sense of betrayal and dissatisfaction.

Coach Kim Ki-dong, a former Pohang Steelers legend himself, responded to the criticism with measured composure. "I believe it's understandable. I need to accept it," he said, acknowledging the fans' emotions in light of the current situation. His acceptance of the criticism reflects the complex dynamics between club management, player careers, and fan expectations.

On the field, FC Seoul's foreign attackers lit up the match. All four goals were scored by foreign players, excluding defender Yazan, showcasing the attacking prowess of Lingard, Lucas, Doumbia, and Klimalla. This offensive firepower helped Seoul not only secure the victory but also achieve their highest-scoring performance of the season at home.

Coach Kim emphasized the players' concentration and tactical discipline as key factors in the win. "The players showed high focus. I stressed the importance of performing well at home. We created chances and defended well against the opponent's attacking patterns. As the game progressed, the players' confidence grew," he explained. This confidence was evident in the fluid attacking combinations and solid defensive work that kept Pohang at bay.

Despite the on-field success, the match was overshadowed by the ongoing saga of Ki Sung-yueng's transfer. FC Seoul supporters staged a symbolic 'funeral' rally hours before kickoff, decrying what they viewed as the club's failure to honor their legend properly. The rally included chants and a mock funeral rite, reflecting the depth of fan anger and sorrow.

Coach Kim addressed the difficult decisions players face regarding their careers, drawing from his own experience. "Ultimately, the choice is the player's own. I also had to decide when to retire after much thought. Players can't play forever; at some point, they have to make that decision," he said, offering perspective on Ki Sung-yueng's move.

FC Seoul's current standing improved with this win, moving them from eighth to sixth place with a record of 7 wins, 9 draws, and 5 losses, totaling 30 points. The victory also extended their unbeaten streak in the league to four matches, including two wins and two draws, signaling a potential upswing in form.

Looking ahead, Coach Kim expressed optimism about the team's trajectory and upcoming challenges. With the Korea Cup approaching, where FC Seoul is set to face Jeonbuk Hyundai, he emphasized the need for a different approach compared to the regular league. "If we win against Jeonbuk, we can look forward to the final at home. This victory has eased some pressure and given us time to prepare during the A-match period," he noted.

Despite the turbulent fan atmosphere, Kim remains committed to his role and the club's future. "It's my role to make FC Seoul fans smile again," he stated, underscoring his dedication to restoring faith and success at the club.

The match, dubbed the 'Ki Sung-yueng Derby' due to the emotional weight of the transfer, highlighted the complexities of modern football where player movements can deeply affect fan sentiment and club dynamics. While Ki Sung-yueng did not feature in the match as his transfer procedures were incomplete, his presence loomed large over the contest and the club's current narrative.

FC Seoul now faces the challenge of maintaining momentum and climbing higher in the standings. With only a small points gap separating them from second place, the team and Coach Kim are focused on harnessing their recent confidence and delivering consistent performances in both league and cup competitions.

In the end, this victory marked more than just three points; it was a statement of resilience amid adversity, a showcase of attacking flair, and a reminder of the passionate, sometimes turbulent, relationship between a club, its players, and its fans.