Korean professional sports teams are growing increasingly concerned as the won-dollar exchange rate continues to surge amid the U.S.-Iran war, driving up the cost of paying foreign players in dollars. Teams typically pay foreign players their annual salaries in monthly installments based on the exchange rate at the time of payment.
On the 8th, the won-dollar exchange rate stood at around 1,485 won, a sharp increase from the early 1,400-won range seen as recently as February. In the early days of the U.S.-Iran war, the rate briefly surpassed 1,500 won, reaching its highest level since the global financial crisis. Exchange rate volatility continues to fluctuate with developments in the conflict.
Korean professional teams with foreign players are watching the rising exchange rate with concern. Foreign player contracts worth millions of dollars are denominated in U.S. currency, meaning a stronger dollar could significantly increase operating costs.
An official from Team A in the KBO League said, "We've experienced numerous sharp exchange rate increases due to financial crises while operating the team. We budget generously to ensure there are no gaps in team finances even during crisis situations." However, the official added, "But if the high exchange rate above the late 1,400-won level persists for long, that could change things, which is worrying."
K League professional soccer has been hit particularly hard after eliminating foreign player limits this year. Until the 2025 season, K League 1 clubs could register up to six foreign players, while K League 2 clubs were limited to five. But ahead of this season, the league abolished these restrictions for the first time in 43 years. With no limits on foreign players, clubs have been competitively expanding their rosters of foreign talent.
An official from K League 1 Team B said, "Most clubs have seen increased spending due to the elimination of foreign player limits. The short-term impact may be limited, but if the high exchange rate persists long-term, disruptions to team operations will be unavoidable."
An official from Team C also said, "The Middle East situation is changing day by day, and unexpected events can occur at any time, so we are closely monitoring the situation."