Suwon: Lee Jung-hyo, recently appointed head coach of Suwon Samsung Bluewings, emphasized his commitment to prioritizing the process rather than focusing solely on outcomes, as he begins his tenure at the club aiming to restore its former glory.

According to Yonhap News Agency, Lee was officially introduced as Suwon Samsung's new coach after the K League 2 club announced his signing on Christmas Eve. The 50-year-old expressed his gratitude and honor at being chosen by a club with a rich history and tradition during his introductory press conference in Suwon, just south of Seoul. He noted the warm welcome and respect he received from everyone at the club.

Lee's coaching career includes a successful stint at Gwangju FC from 2022 to 2025, during which he led the team to win the K League 2 title and secure promotion to the top-flight K League 1 in 2023. Gwangju FC maintained their top-league status for three consecutive seasons and reached significant milestones, including the Korea Cup final and the Asian Football Confederation Champions League Elite quarterfinals in 2025.

Despite financial constraints at Gwangju FC, Lee's achievements have made him a sought-after coach. Suwon Samsung, a four-time K League 1 champion, is banking on Lee's track record as they aim to return to the top league. The club faced relegation after finishing last in the K League 1 in 2023 and missed promotion opportunities in subsequent seasons.

Lee acknowledged the challenges ahead, emphasizing the need to change player attitudes towards professionalism through training and communication. He refrained from setting specific objectives for his first season, focusing instead on instilling the importance of the process in achieving goals.

He expressed a commitment to taking gradual steps toward his ultimate goal without feeling pressured, and highlighted the mutual respect between him and the club as a key factor in his decision to join a second-division team.

Lee also addressed criticisms of Suwon Samsung's investment in talent, suggesting that improved performances would naturally lead to increased investment. He praised the club's young talent and emphasized the importance of developing them with experienced players' support.

Reflecting on his coaching journey, Lee expressed his desire to inspire other aspiring K League coaches by continuing to overcome challenges and pursue ambitious goals.