Pohang fans furious, declare immediate 'cheering boycott' starting from the East Coast Derby

*This content was translated by AI.View Original

The supporters of Pohang Steelers in K League 1 have declared a "cheering boycott." The "East Coast Derby" against their biggest rival, Ulsan HD, marks the starting point of the boycott.

Pohang Supporters Association Marins issued a statement on the 24th, declaring, "We are entering a cheering boycott starting from today's (the 24th) away match against Ulsan." Pohang is set to play Ulsan in the final regular round match (Round 33) of the Hana Bank K League 1 2026 season at Ulsan Munsu Football Stadium at 2 p.m. on the same day.

The Pohang supporters' side pointed out, "We are not in a situation where we need to worry about immediate relegation this season. However, if things continue as they are now, no one can guarantee what kind of situation Pohang Steelers will face next season and beyond."

They further stated, "What we are concerned about is not simply the loss of a few matches or poor performance in a single season. It is that the direction and philosophy of football that Pohang Steelers have long upheld are disappearing. That is the biggest reason why we are taking action now."

The supporters' side explained, "Pohang has built an organic football philosophy under the name 'Steelers Way,' connecting from youth teams to the professional team in a single direction," adding, "That philosophy was not just a slogan."

They emphasized, "It was a clear direction on what kind of football Pohang should play, what kind of players it should develop, and how to maintain Pohang's unique competitiveness even amidst numerous difficulties."

They added, "However, it is difficult to find that image in the football we are seeing now. Scenes that are hard for fans who have quietly supported Pohang for a long time to accept are being repeated."

The supporters' side emphasized, "We are not unaware of reality. Fans also know that investment from the parent company has decreased compared to the past, and that this creates clear limitations in player composition and squad management," while adding, "We are not demanding unconditional investment and results only. However, we must not abandon Pohang's football philosophy on the grounds of limited resources."

They further added, "The more limited the budget, the clearer the need for a distinct philosophy and direction. The moment we lose our own style of football, Pohang Steelers will even lose sight of where to go next. The only path we must follow is STEELERS WAY."

The Pohang supporters' side explained, "If we do not attempt any change in the current situation, we will eventually face a greater crisis," adding, "We hope that Pohang Steelers can play football that is truly 'Pohang-like' again. We are taking action because we can no longer watch this club we love lose its direction and collapse."

Demanding that the club "re-establish the football philosophy of Pohang Steelers and present a clear direction for the club to follow," they warned, "We will continue an indefinite boycott this season until the club presents a direction for change and a concrete blueprint that fans can accept."

Pohang, led by manager Park Tae-ha, is struggling in 9th place among 12 teams with a record of 11 wins, 8 draws, and 13 losses (41 points) this season. They have confirmed their placement in the Final B Group (lower split) for the first time in five years since 2021.

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*This content was translated by AI.View Original