The transfer of Ki Sung-yueng (36) from FC Seoul has ignited turmoil far beyond a simple player transfer, shaking the loyalty of the club’s core supporters. His farewell was anything but quiet—and when fans demanded answers, the club responded with silence. In the end, Seoul’s main supporters group, Suhoshin (Guardian), has declared a boycott of organized support.
On the 25th, Ki posted a statement on social media: “I initially decided to retire after being told by the coach that I was no longer part of the team’s plans. But after heartfelt pleas from my family and teammates, I reconsidered. I still have the ability—and, more importantly, the desire—to keep playing.” After terminating his contract with FC Seoul, Ki opted to join Pohang Steelers, following an offer from coach Park Tae-ha.
“Seoul has always been my hometown and my pride. I wanted to give my all here until the very end,” he wrote. “Though this may seem like a selfish decision, my sincerity remains unchanged. I hope fans can understand.”
But fans were far from appeased. Shortly after the transfer rumors began, Suhoshin issued a statement to the club demanding two things: (1) a full explanation of the circumstances surrounding Ki’s transfer, and (2) transparency regarding any internal conflicts and the leadership of the head coach. The group warned that failure to respond would lead to further action and that the club would bear responsibility for the consequences.
The club officially announced its separation from Ki Sung-yueng without directly addressing the demands, and Suhoshin stated that it would proceed with a second course of action if no reply was given by 2 p.m. on the 26th. According to Suhoshin’s second official statement, FC Seoul informed the group that it would be difficult to provide a response by 2 p.m. As a result, Suhoshin declared a boycott of all organized cheering activities.
Suhoshin stated, “We can no longer tolerate the silence of the club and the head coach. Our group has made it clear that the participation of head coach Kim Gi-dong is essential. We have already informed the club that we will not proceed with any meeting unless Coach Kim is present. We plan to submit a renewed request for a meeting to be held with the participation of the head coach, the general manager, and all Suhoshin members. Until a supporters’ meeting involving the entire supporters’ group takes place, the boycott will continue.” Suhoshin plans to begin the boycott starting with the K League 1 match against Pohang, scheduled to be held at Seoul World Cup Stadium on the 29th.
What remains is a widening rift between the fans and the club—and the image of the “eternal captain” donning a different uniform, seen only from behind in silence.
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