Lee Jung-hyo, the new head coach of K League 2's Suwon Samsung Bluewings, stressed to his players on Jan. 2 the importance of focusing on the process rather than outcomes. Drawing from his successful tenure at Gwangju FC, he expressed determination to revive the club. Suwon Samsung aims to return to the top flight after relegation in 2023.
At his introductory press conference in Suwon on Jan. 2, Lee Jung-hyo, the 50-year-old new head coach of Suwon Samsung Bluewings, urged his players to prioritize the process over results. "If players only think about outcomes, they risk becoming complacent," he said. "Every club shares the same goal, but understanding the process to achieve it is key."
Suwon Samsung, four-time K League 1 champions, were relegated in 2023 after finishing last. They placed sixth in K League 2 in 2024 and second in 2025, earning a spot in the promotion-relegation playoffs against Jeju SK, but lost both legs 3-0 on aggregate. The club parted ways with previous coach Byun Sung-hwan and released 12 players.
Lee's track record at Gwangju FC from 2022 to 2025 offers hope. He led them to the K League 2 title in 2022 for promotion to K League 1, where they survived three seasons despite limited funding. In 2025, Gwangju reached the Korea Cup final and the quarterfinals of the Asian Football Confederation Champions League Elite.
"Some Suwon players have different views on professionalism, and I'll change that through training and communication," Lee noted, having closely watched their playoff defeats. He avoided setting specific targets for his debut season but focused on pleasing fans. "Pressure doesn't exist in my head; I'm ready to enjoy the pursuit," he added.
Lee requested experienced players to mentor the club's young talents, emphasizing development over big spending. He chose Suwon despite their second-division status due to the respect shown to him. "People who want me to fail keep me motivated," he said, aiming to inspire other K League coaches as a former fringe player turned successful tactician. The club hopes his approach will restore past glories.
