Pohang: The top national football league announced Friday it has banned matches at a stadium in the southeastern city of Pohang until further notice due to safety concerns. The Korea Professional Football League (K League) stated that the Pohang Steelers will not be permitted to play their two remaining K League 1 home matches for August at Pohang Steel Yard, located approximately 270 kilometers southeast of Seoul, while safety evaluations are conducted at the venue.

According to Yonhap News Agency, the decision was made following an incident during a league match last Saturday at the 36-year-old stadium, where a piece of concrete fell from the ceiling, injuring a fan. The Steelers reported that the fan sustained a minor hand injury and opted to watch the remainder of the match from a different section of the stadium instead of seeking medical attention at a local hospital.

The K League has directed the Pohang Steelers to secure an alternate venue for their next two home matches. After failing to find a suitable location, the Steelers consented to allow Bucheon 1995 and Gangwon FC to host those games, scheduled for August 22 and August 30, respectively. The league office emphasized that Pohang Steel Yard will remain off-limits for any matches until a comprehensive inspection ensures the venue's safety.

Additionally, the K League announced plans to conduct safety assessments at other stadiums and implement necessary measures to guarantee a secure environment for spectators, players, and match officials. In a related move, the Steelers revealed on Thursday that they will not host the round of 16 match against Jinju Citizen FC in the Korea Cup tournament next Wednesday due to safety concerns.