Five newly appointed K League 1 managers declared confident ambitions for the 2026 season at the league's media day on February 25 at the Swiss Grand Hotel in Seoul.
Jeonbuk's Jung Jung-yong: "We'll Add Another Star"
Jung Jung-yong, who takes over Jeonbuk Hyundai after Gus Poyet's departure following last season's league and Korea Cup double, unveiled "New Star" as his slogan. "As you know, our uniform has one big star. I hope another star will be added next to it next year," Jung said, signaling his pursuit of the club's 11th league title.
Jeonbuk underwent significant roster changes this offseason, losing key players including captain Park Jin-seop, Song Min-gyu, Hong Jeong-ho, and Kwon Chang-hoon. However, Jung silenced skeptics by winning the revived Super Cup against Daejeon Hana Citizen on February 21.
Jung, known as a "scholarly" coach with a doctorate in sports physiology, previously led South Korea to a historic runner-up finish at the 2019 U-20 World Cup and guided Gimcheon Sangmu to consecutive Final A appearances.
Ulsan's Kim Hyun-seok: "We'll Become a Black Hole"
Ulsan HD endured a turbulent 2025 season, dismissing two managers and finishing ninth after winning three consecutive titles. Club legend Kim Hyun-seok was brought in to stabilize the struggling squad.
"When I received the offer, I said yes without even breathing," Kim said. "At that time, Ulsan was like a tilting aircraft carrier with all its cargo spilling out. Now we're finding balance. Once we load fighter jets like F-35s, we'll be formidable again."
Kim's goal is to become a "black hole" that absorbs everything, leaving only Ulsan standing at the end.
Jeju's Sergio Costa: From Bento's Right Hand to Island Hope
Sergio Costa, who served as assistant coach under Paulo Bento with the Korean national team from 2018-2022, takes charge at Jeju SK after the club narrowly avoided relegation last season.
Costa chose "Process" as his keyword. "We believe in the process and are building the team. When difficult situations arise, we must trust the process," he said.
Jeju strengthened their squad by signing national team veteran Kwon Chang-hoon and Lithuanian striker Gytis.
Gwangju's Lee Jung-kyu: Stepping Out of Predecessor's Shadow
Lee Jung-kyu inherits a Gwangju FC side that has consistently punched above its weight since their 2022 promotion. Lee served as assistant coach under previous manager Lee Jung-hyo from 2022-2024 and was selected for his deep understanding of the club's playing style despite having no head coaching experience.