Gimpo FC has issued an official statement regarding the recent controversy surrounding Park Dong-jin's finger gesture incident, declaring a strong stance to confront the issue head-on.
Gimpo clarified its position on its official social media on the 14th (Korean time) regarding the series of controversies that occurred during the match against Incheon United on June 29 at Gimpo Solter Soccer Field in the Hana Bank K League 2 2025 Round 18. The statement included the argument between Park Dong-jin and Incheon coach Abel, the clash with fans after the match, and the violent incident that occurred in the parking lot.
Regarding the most controversial incident involving Park Dong-jin's finger gesture, Gimpo stated, “On the 10th, the Disciplinary Committee imposed a fine of 2.5 million won on Park Dong-jin, and coach Abel of Incheon received a warning.”
It continued, “Park Dong-jin did not deny the fact of the insult. He acknowledged it to the match commissioner immediately after the game and attempted to apologize to Incheon coach Yoon Jung-hwan, but this was not possible due to the coach’s refusal. During a KBS interview and when attending the Disciplinary Committee, he acknowledged his mistake and promised to prevent a recurrence.”
Gimpo acknowledged that Park Dong-jin's actions warranted criticism, but also pointed out that coach Abel's provocative remarks and actions were the catalyst for the incident. “The behavior of coach Abel, who failed to show respect for the opponent, contributed to the cause. While we recognize Park Dong-jin's fault, coach Abel cannot escape responsibility either,” it emphasized.
Gimpo also emphasized the values of sportsmanship and fair play. “Players and coaches must give their all to win, but after the game, the winner should console the loser and the loser should congratulate the winner. This is the fundamental spirit of sports and the starting point of mutual respect,” it stated.
It also mentioned the situation involving Incheon’s Moon Ji-hwan, who was injured after colliding with Gimpo goalkeeper Son Jeong-hyeon during the match. Gimpo stated, “Son Jeong-hyeon personally apologized to Moon Ji-hwan, and the injury was not intentional. Soccer inherently involves strong body clashes, and all players fight amid the risk of injury. Excessive criticism towards individual players should stop.”
Gimpo expressed strong regret over the most serious violent incident as well. It stated, “After the match, some agitated Incheon fans assaulted Gimpo fans, resulting in broken teeth,” and added, “Violence can never be justified for any reason. The police are currently investigating, and we strongly condemn this incident.”
Gimpo promised to strengthen safety management measures, including separating fans and players to prevent recurrence. “We will take this incident as an opportunity to improve our safety management. We sincerely hope that such deviations do not happen again at all soccer fields in the future,” it added.
[Photo] Provided by the federation.
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