Following last month's wave of coaching changes among K League strugglers, Gwangju FC's new head coach Lee Jung-kyu held his introductory press conference on January 4 at Gwangju World Cup Stadium. The 43-year-old aims to propel the club back to K League 1's Final A group—and ideally the top flight—in 2026, building on established systems while fixing defensive frailties after two lower-tier seasons.
Lee, stepping up from assistant roles including under predecessor Lee Jung-hyo (now at Suwon Samsung Bluewings), emphasized continuity with evolution. "I want to maintain the system that Gwangju FC have built over the years and also make sure we will take the next big step," he said.
After 33 regular-season matches, K League 1's 12 clubs split into top-six Final A and bottom-six Final B; Gwangju placed third in 2023 but ninth in 2024 and seventh in 2025 before relegation. The immediate target: Final A contention. "During training camp, we will develop more specific goals," Lee added. "We can be competitive if we train with purpose."
His tactics align closely with his mentor's but prioritize aggressive pressing and space creation. "I'm all about the process over the outcome," he said. "Good results will follow." Offseason priorities include shoring up defense, with recent goal differences of minus-1 and minus-7.
A FIFA registration ban bars new signings until summer, but Lee dismissed excuses: "I want new players to learn our system quickly for June impact."
Spots will be earned through effort: "I'll judge by camp performance, not names. Youngsters get opportunities. Consistency is key."
The squad left for Thailand training camp on January 5.
