Ulsan Hyundai, the reigning champions of South Korea’s K-League 1, have sensationally dismissed head coach Shin Tae Yong after a tenure of just two months. The decision comes as the team has experienced a significant downturn in form, now finding themselves precariously close to the league’s relegation zone.
The former Indonesia national team coach expressed his deep disappointment regarding the swift termination, though he acknowledged the club’s decision. “It’s certainly too soon, but I have no other choice than to accept the club’s decision,” Shin Tae Yong reportedly shared on his social media. “I gave my all during my time at Ulsan, but the current circumstances at the club are incredibly challenging. I tried to bring about change amidst these difficulties, and it’s truly a sad situation for me.”
The 54-year-old tactician took charge in August with strong assurances of further strengthening Ulsan. However, under his leadership, the team played eight matches, securing only one victory, along with three draws and four losses. This disappointing run has seen Ulsan Hyundai plummet to tenth place out of twelve teams in the top flight, with the league already progressing into its 32nd round.
The club’s struggles under Shin Tae Yong have put Ulsan Hyundai at risk of facing playoff matches to retain their coveted spot in the K-League 1, a scenario typically reserved for teams battling relegation. Following Shin Tae Yong’s departure, Ulsan Hyundai, a club slated to participate in the 2025 Club World Cup, announced the immediate appointment of youth team coach Noh Sang-rae as interim head coach, effective from the 33rd round of matches. Furthermore, in a move to take responsibility for the team’s declining performance, CEO Kim Gwang Guk also stepped down from his position, as reported by Yonhap News.
Ulsan Hyundai boasts a decorated history, having won the K-League 1 title for three consecutive seasons. However, the club’s recent difficulties began after the departure of former head coach Hong Myung-bo, who left to manage the South Korea national team in 2024. Prior to Shin Tae Yong’s arrival, another South Korean coach, Kim Pan-gon, formerly with the Malaysian national team, also struggled to achieve consistent positive results with the club, indicating a persistent challenge for the reigning champions.
