[On-site Interview] "I was worried and ran over": 'Partner spirit' shone brighter than the match... Gu Seong-yun crossed the field toward fallen Kim Hyung-geun

*This content was translated by AI.

Even as a fierce battle raged, FC Seoul goalkeeper Gu Seong-yun (32) ran across the field for opposing goalkeeper Kim Hyung-geun (32·BucheonFC).

Seoul defeated Bucheon 3-1 in an away match of Round 18 of the Hana Bank K League 1 2026 held at Bucheon Stadium on the 19th.

League-leading Seoul secured a valuable three points, but a scene that sent chills through everyone's hearts emerged during the match. In the 9th minute of the second half, while Kim Hyung-geun tried to block a goal scored by Seoul midfielder Jung Seung-won, he collided with him. Kim Hyung-geun complained of severe pain and collapsed on the field.

Medical staff rushed in, but Kim Hyung-geun could not get up easily. Eventually, an ambulance even entered the stadium.

Feeling the situation was serious, Gu Seong-yun left his own goal and ran to where Kim Hyung-geun had fallen. Although the two players' goals were at opposite ends of the field, Gu Seong-yun sprinted all the way to the other end out of concern for Kim Hyung-geun. It was a moment when the 'partner spirit' between goalkeepers who stepped away from the match shone brightly.

After the match, Gu Seong-yun told reporters, "I have known Kim Hyung-geun since we were young. Because I was far away, I couldn't see exactly what was happening." He added, "At first, I thought Jung Seung-won was injured, but Kim Hyung-geun wasn't getting up. Since an ambulance even came in, I was very worried and ran over," he explained.

Gu Seong-yun, who rushed to Kim Hyung-geun's side, tried to reassure him. Gu Seong-yun said, "I told him he would be fine and not to worry."

Fortunately, it appears Kim Hyung-geun avoided a serious injury. After the match, Bucheon coach Lee Young-min explained Kim Hyung-geun's condition as "mild concussion symptoms."

Gu Seong-yun also expressed sympathy as a fellow goalkeeper. This is because he knows better than anyone the fate of a position that requires throwing one's body to protect the goal.

Gu Seong-yun said, "I felt very sorry. But it is difficult for goalkeepers to avoid such situations. Since stopping the ball is their life, they cannot hold back their bodies." He added, "Still, I am relieved that it did not lead to a serious injury."

While worrying about Kim Hyung-geun, Gu Seong-yun returned to his position and protected Seoul's goal until the end. Seoul took a 2-0 lead with consecutive goals by Jo Young-wook and Jung Seung-won. In the 18th minute of the second half, Bucheon's Kim Sang-jun scored a consolation goal, but in stoppage time, Patrick Klimala scored a decisive goal, securing three points away from home.

Gu Seong-yun also held off Bucheon's fierce attacks as they sought an equalizer until the end, laying the foundation for victory. Gu Seong-yun said, "After the first goal conceded in the second half, the momentum shifted to Bucheon. The players were quite flustered, but since there are many experienced players, I think they handled it well." He added, "Thanks to that, we were able to achieve a 3-1 victory," and credited his teammates.

This season, Gu Seong-yun, wearing Seoul's jersey, has steadily protected the back door and contributed to the team's lead in the standings. That day, Seoul defensive coach Kim Ki-dong praised him: "Gu Seong-yun played well, making the defense line feel secure. It seems the players are playing comfortably."

Gu Seong-yun said, "I don't try to do anything excessively; I calmly compose my mind before entering the match." He added, "Not just me, but all players are preparing well and doing their best on the field. Watching my teammates from behind, I also gain a lot of motivation and am moved."

He continued, "I try to do as much as I can in my part. That led to good saves and results, so I think the coach praised me for that," expressing gratitude.

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*This content was translated by AI.