The transfer approval for the OK Savings Bank OOTMAN volleyball team's Busan base has been granted. The OK Savings Bank volleyball team is going to meet with Busan fans to solidify its V League fan base.

On the 24th, the Korea Volleyball Federation (KOVO) held a board meeting at the office conference room located in Sangam-dong, Mapo-gu, Seoul. Directors General of 14 teams in the men's and women's V League attended the meeting.

Among the several agenda items discussed at the meeting, the point of interest was the transfer of the OK Savings Bank volleyball team's base. The transfer was ultimately approved at the meeting, allowing the OK OOTMAN volleyball team to operate from Busan as its new base.

Director General Kwon Cheol-geun noted, "The transfer was approved unanimously at the board meeting," explaining one of the reasons for the transfer, "There is no team south of Daejeon. Men's volleyball does not attract viewership south of Daejeon."

He continued, "It was necessary to establish a new turning point to secure a nationwide V League fan base," adding, "Also, it is to reduce dependence on the parent company and strengthen self-sustainability. We confirmed the enthusiasm for volleyball in Busan in 2019 and began discussions on the transfer in 2020."

The current name of the home stadium is Gangseo Sports Park Indoor Gymnasium. The seating capacity is 4,189 (including 972 variable seats). Public transportation access is also convenient, being just a 6-minute walk from the Gym Park Station on Busan Subway Line 3. The team considered fan accessibility and convenience comprehensively. The following is a Q&A with the Director General of the OK Savings Bank volleyball team regarding the transfer.

▲ Will the players' accommodations remain the same? What considerations are being made for the travel distance for the team?

The team's operating expenses will likely increase. However, we are negotiating with KTX and airlines. We are considering the most effective methods, including buses. The club house relocation has not been decided yet, but we are thinking it will happen in 2 to 3 years.

▲ There are plans to maintain the Yongin clubhouse system, what do the players think about this situation of moving in 2 to 3 years?

It is true there are concerns. However, the reaction has not been negative.

▲ Have you received any feedback from local volleyball communities?

The Busan Volleyball Association responded positively. They are welcoming us a lot. The city of Busan is actively taking steps. Thus, the sports council and association are providing strong support.

▲ There must have been backlash from (Ansung) fans. Is there a plan for communication?

We have carefully evaluated the affection sent to us. We are communicating with the many fans who have given us a lot of love. Moving forward, we will need to approach matches with a big heart, though there are apologies to be made. We are also thinking about how to engage with the 'true fans'. We are contemplating programs that can continue alongside the many Ansung fans who have loved us for a long time.

▲ Are there any plans to change the CI, emblem, etc.?

We are contemplating this. We are trying to incorporate 'Busan' into the design as much as possible.

▲ The Gangseo Gymnasium has been utilized by the citizens of Busan. Will there be inconveniences for community sportspeople with the professional volleyball team moving in?

We will prepare benefits that we can offer. We have received contact from the city of Busan. They mentioned they will take as many steps as possible, and we will also pay attention to this.

▲ Communication has been ongoing with Busan for a long time. Were there any other regions being considered aside from Busan?

We considered other big cities, starting with Seoul because it was deemed favorable. We also looked into Daegu. However, the gymnasium there was quite old.

▲ We expect synergy effects by moving to a larger market. What figures are you anticipating? (This question was answered by Im Seong-soon, Head of Team)

The volleyball team's primary revenue sources are advertising, sponsorships, and merchandise. Currently, we expect sponsors in Busan. Weekday attendance requires sufficient transportation access. We aim to ensure not only fans in Busan but also traveling fans can enjoy watching comfortably. In the men's division, our card and Hyundai Capital have recorded an average attendance in the late 2000s, and the goal is to surpass that, reaching the top in men's division attendance. Additionally, we are planning to maximize merchandise sales according to the scale of our fan base.

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