Kim Byung-ji boasted of the "70 billion won promotional effect for Gangwon FC" that he did not mention during the hearing... Fans respond coldly: "Then spend less on taxes."

*This content was translated by AI.

Kim Byung-ji (56), CEO of Gangwon FC, who attended the National Assembly hearing, emphasized the club's "70 billion won" promotional achievement, but fans' reactions remain lukewarm.

Kim Byeong-ji (CEO) revealed on his social media (SNS) on the 31st the club's operational philosophy that he did not discuss during the previous day's National Assembly hearing.

He began by saying, "Due to the short time available, I focused on explaining the founding background and public role of the regional community club, so I was unable to fully describe Gangwon FC's achievements and future direction."

He continued, "The regional community club was established to fulfill public roles such as local promotion, revitalization of the local economy, unity among residents, and youth development," and emphasized that "Gangwon FC has played a crucial promotional and marketing role in introducing Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province to the nation over the past year." In particular, he highlighted economic results by stating, "It is estimated that the club generated approximately 70 billion won in promotional effects, about five times the investment."

He also mentioned improvements in the club's financial stability. Gangwon FC has reduced its reliance on provincial subsidies from 67% to 42%, and according to Kim Byeong-ji (CEO), this figure is expected to drop into the 30th% range this year. He explained, "Gangwon FC's total revenue in 2026 is projected to be around 30 billion won, of which 12 billion won will come from provincial subsidies. Looking at changes in annual revenue and profits over the past eight years, if we manage the annual operating budget at approximately 18 billion won, we are building a foundation for pure profit management even without support from Gangwon Province as the main sponsor."

He also noted Gangwon FC's strong performance, ranking second in 2024 and fifth in 2025, currently holding third place this year. He added, "Over the past three years, the club has produced numerous players for the Asian Games and the national team, including five players from Gangwon FC."

He further stated, "We have made 'growth for all'—where players, coaches, staff, interns, and even the CEO grow together—a core value of our club operations. Gangwon FC will not rest on its achievements but will strengthen its self-reliance even more. We will work together to become a club that gives pride to residents and enhances the value of Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province."

However, despite Kim Byeong-ji (CEO)'s positive outlook, fans remain skeptical. Online communities have raised doubts about the objectivity of his claim regarding the "70 billion won promotional effect."

Fans strongly criticized by demanding, "Release concrete data to support the 70 billion won promotional effect," "If such a massive effect is real, provincial subsidies should be reduced immediately," and "This is not the voice of a club that has been in chronic deficit for years."

Additionally, pointed remarks were made: "If the impact is indeed that significant, instead of relying on taxes, you should first prove your ability to become self-sustaining by attracting external corporate sponsors."

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*This content was translated by AI.