Gangwon FC secured a narrow 1-0 away win against Gwangju FC in a K League 1 match on May 25, 2025. The visitors executed a perfect smash-and-grab at Gwangju Football Stadium, soaking up pressure and scoring a late winner to stun the home crowd. Gwangju controlled possession for much of the contest but were repeatedly frustrated by Gangwon's compact defensive block and occasional threatening counter-attacks. The decisive goal came against the run of play in the final ten minutes, as a Gangwon substitute finished coolly after a swift break. Gwangju threw everything forward in search of an equalizer but could not find a way through, suffering a disappointing home defeat. This result would have been a significant boost for Gangwon's survival hopes, while halting Gwangju's positive momentum. The Gangwon manager hailed his team's fighting spirit, while the Gwangju coach criticized his players' wastefulness in front of goal.