Mokpo City 0–1 Gyeongju KHNP: Late Away Strike Decides K League 3 Clash

Gyeongju KHNP claimed a hard-fought 1–0 victory over Mokpo City at the Mokpo International Football Center on May 17, 2026, courtesy of a second-half goal that maintained their strong start to the K League 3 campaign. The result keeps Gyeongju in touch with the early season pace-setters, while Mokpo were left to rue missed chances in a tightly contested encounter.

Match Overview

The match, played under clear skies, saw both sides adopt cautious approaches in the opening exchanges. Mokpo City, playing on home soil, looked to impose themselves through quick transitions and wide play, but Gyeongju’s disciplined defensive shape frustrated their efforts. The away side grew into the contest as the first half progressed, with midfielder Kim Ji-hoon orchestrating play from deep.

Key Moment

The decisive moment arrived in the 67th minute. A corner kick from the left side caused chaos in the Mokpo box, and Gyeongju defender Park Min-gyu rose highest to head the ball past the helpless home goalkeeper. The goal was initially flagged for offside but was confirmed after a VAR review, sparking celebrations among the travelling supporters.

Tactical Battle

Mokpo City attempted to respond by introducing fresh legs in attack, with substitutes Park Chan-yong and Lee Sang-ho adding urgency. However, Gyeongju’s back line, marshalled by veteran centre-back Kim Dae-won, held firm. The visitors absorbed pressure well and nearly doubled their lead in stoppage time when Lee Yong-jae fired narrowly wide after a swift counter-attack.

Standout Performers

• Park Min-gyu (Gyeongju KHNP): The match-winner with a commanding header, also solid in defence.
• Kim Ji-hoon (Gyeongju KHNP): Controlled the midfield tempo and provided key passes.
• Jung Hyun-woo (Mokpo City): The home goalkeeper made several fine saves to keep his side in the game.

Season Impact

The win lifts Gyeongju KHNP to fourth in the K League 3 standings, level on points with second-placed Paju Citizen. Mokpo City, meanwhile, drop to ninth after their third defeat of the campaign. Both teams will look to bounce back in the midweek fixtures.