Ulsan HD FC Edges Past Jeju SK FC in Thrilling K League 1 Encounter

Ulsan, South Korea – May 13, 2026 – Ulsan HD FC continued their strong form in the 2026 K League 1 season with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Jeju SK FC at the Ulsan Munsu Football Stadium on Wednesday evening. The win keeps the defending champions firmly in the title race, handing Jeju a frustrating defeat despite a spirited second-half comeback.

Match Overview

Ulsan entered the match looking to rebound from a recent draw, while Jeju sought to climb the mid-table standings. The home side dominated the opening stages, pressing high and creating several early chances. The deadlock was broken in the 23rd minute when Ulsan’s top scorer, Joo Min-kyu, latched onto a through ball from Lee Dong-gyeong and slotted calmly past the Jeju goalkeeper. Ulsan doubled their lead just before half-time through a set-piece header from central defender Kim Young-gwon, who powered home a corner from Lee Cheong-yong.

Jeju came out with renewed intensity after the interval, pushing forward and testing Ulsan’s backline. Their persistence paid off in the 67th minute when substitute forward Kim Seung-sub finished a quick counter-attack with a clinical strike into the bottom corner. The goal set up a tense final 20 minutes, but Ulsan’s defense, marshaled by experienced goalkeeper Jo Hyeon-woo, held firm to secure the three points.

Key Moments

• 23’ – Ulsan opener: Joo Min-kyu’s intelligent run and finish after a quick one-two with Lee Dong-gyeong.
• 45+2’ – Kim Young-gwon header: Powerful near-post flick from a corner, leaving the Jeju keeper with no chance.
• 67’ – Jeju response: Kim Seung-sub’s composed finish after a rapid break from midfield.
• 88’ – Late Ulsan chance: Substitute Lee Seung-woo fired narrowly wide from the edge of the box.

Tactical Story

Ulsan’s 4-3-3 formation worked effectively in the first half, with wide attackers stretching Jeju’s defensive line. The absence of Jeju’s key midfielder, Koo Ja-cheol (injured), was felt as they struggled to maintain possession. After the break, Jeju switched to a 4-4-2 with higher pressing, which created the equalizer opportunity but also left spaces that Ulsan nearly exploited on the counter. Ulsan’s manager, Hong Myung-bo, will be pleased with his side’s resilience after conceding.

Standout Players

• Kim Young-gwon (Ulsan HD): Not only scored but also made several crucial clearances and interceptions.
• Lee Dong-gyeong (Ulsan HD): Creative midfielder who provided the assist for the first goal and dictated play from the middle.
• Kim Seung-sub (Jeju SK): Lively off the bench, gave Ulsan’s defense problems with his pace and finishing.

Table Impact

With this win, Ulsan HD FC moved to 31 points from 14 matches, keeping pace with league leaders FC Seoul and Pohang Steelers. Jeju SK remained on 19 points, now five points adrift of the top four. Ulsan’s home record remains formidable – they have lost only once at home this season.

– K League 1 match report, Round 14, 2026.