We went to a K-League football (or soccer) match and it was the best time!
Whether you are into football or not, seeing a K-League match is a fun experience! Thanks to a lovely friend of mine, I was invited to attend the FC Seoul vs. Daegu match that was held on the 19th of August, 2023. Read on to find out how it was!
Atmosphere
The atmosphere at these games is vibrant, fun, and exciting! Even if you're not a fan of sports or football, you can't help but chant or dance a little. The fans are hyped up 100% of the time and make you feel like you're part of the team. If you've been to any games before or watched them online or on TV, whether that be the Premier League or La Liga you would have noticed the passion and support fans bring to each game. Each league is similar but also quite different. They are similar in terms of atmosphere and fan support, but different in terms of ambiance, which I think relates to a cultural presence, for example, the cultures that are prominent within the settings of each league. Having now been to each of the three leagues above I can say that culture has a big role in the spirit of these games. From food to announcements to chanting. Each respectively has its own entertaining charm!
Video: FC Seoul Fans
FC Seoul & Daegu Line-Up
The Game
Football games are filled with excitement and this comes not only from the teams playing but also from the fans cheering their favorite team and players on. The game we went to was held in the FC Seoul Stadium and had primarily FC Seoul supporters, they sang and chanted for at least 90% of the game and cheered every time their players' names were announced and booed when the other team almost scored. The Daegu fan side was smaller since it was not their home ground but they brought as much vibrancy and passion for their team as well. Their music and chanting had a more Korean vibe to it with the use of Korean instruments. The score ended with a 2-2 draw. My favorite goals of the game were by Kim, Sin Jin 42' (FC Seoul), and Edgar Bruno Da Silva 82' (Daegu).
If you'd like to check out the highlights you can do so here (YouTube):
For shorter highlights:
Football fan or not / Sports fan or not
One thing I'd like to share from my experience of this game is that anyone can share in the enjoyment and excitement of the game regardless of what sport it is. I know that the fandoms in many sports can be very intense and a little judgmental if you're new to it or don't know much about it, but that's not the way it should be. I call myself a football fan despite not knowing every single detail or rule about it, having grown up with it since childhood (thanks Dad, love ya, Liverpool!), my family and I have enjoyed many sports games over the years (cricket, basketball, etc.) without being the 200% expert or the "man" on it. You can enjoy anything really, even if you're not an expert in that area. So, if you are in Seoul and get a chance to come to one of the games I'd highly recommend it! Take an interest (or not) just make the most of it and make some memories!
If you love sports or have an interest in the K-League comment below!
Thanks for sharing your experience.
It feels so nice to read it. I want to go to watch the game too!
Great article. I am not a fan of football but still I can feel the excitement just by reading it and I am sure it would be more fun to watch live match. 👏