A small revolution for goalkeepers is taking place in South Korea! Since 1999 and the creation of the K-League, it has been illegal for foreign goalkeepers to play in the local league, which is exclusively reserved for South Korean nationals. This decision was explained by the Korean League's desire to ensure a solid future in this key position by limiting international competition, even though, at the time, the country only had 10 professional clubs. With 26 teams now playing in its top two divisions, the K League announced in a press release that it was ending this restriction: "Even though foreign goalkeepers are allowed, there is still enough room for local players." Goalkeepers' salaries, which have become very high compared to other positions, as well as concerns about their level, have therefore motivated the Korean football authorities to confirm their alignment with other Asian championships such as the J-League (Japan) or the CSL (China), which had never implemented such a measure.
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"Foreign goalkeepers - finally - allowed in South Korea" : Moon Jungin of Ulsan HD reacts after allowing goal scored by Juan Freytes of Fluminense FC during FIFA Club World Cup 2025 / ©Icon Sport