Seoul, South Korea - Suwon FC and Gangwon FC have both successfully secured their places in South Korea's top professional football division for the next season following their respective victories in crucial playoff matches.
According to Yonhap News Agency, Suwon FC overcame Busan IPark in a thrilling contest at Suwon Stadium, located just south of Seoul, in the second leg of their K League promotion-relegation playoff. Despite trailing early in the match and the series, Suwon FC made a dramatic comeback in the second half, eventually winning the game 5-2 and clinching the series with a 6-4 aggregate score. This victory marks Suwon FC's continuation in the K League 1, avoiding a drop to the K League 2, which they last played in 2015. Busan IPark, who finished second in the K League 2 regular season, missed the chance to ascend to the K League 1 for the first time since 2020.
In a closely contested match, Busan opened the scoring 15 minutes in but was later overwhelmed by Suwon's comeback, led by key players Ricardo Lopes, Kim Hyun, Lee Yeong-jae, and Jeong Jae-yong. Suwon's decisive performance in extra time sealed their victory and maintained their top-tier status.
Meanwhile, at Gangneung Stadium, Gangwon FC faced Gimpo FC in their own promotion-relegation playoff. After a goalless first leg, Gangwon FC secured a 2-1 victory in the second leg, with a 2-1 aggregate score. Vitor Gabriel was the hero for Gangwon FC, scoring both goals, including the decisive one after Gimpo's top scorer Luis Fabian Mina received a red card. Gimpo FC, in only their second year, will remain in the K League 2 for another season.
These results ensure that Suwon FC and Gangwon FC will continue to compete in South Korea's top football division, demonstrating their resilience and competitive spirit in crucial matches.