'Discrimination Against Away Fans Ends' with Full Opening and Neutral Section Operation: Pro League Board Resolves

The Korea Professional Football League (K League) has taken a significant step towards inclusivity by deciding to fully open and operate a neutral cheering section for away fans. This move aims to eliminate discriminatory practices that have recently drawn criticism and tarnished the league's reputation.

The decision, made during the K League's second board meeting of 2026 on June 17, directly addresses the ongoing controversy surrounding the "half-hearted away cheering section" and the general "mistreatment of away fans." For a long time, many teams have provided inadequate facilities or limited access for visiting supporters, leading to widespread dissatisfaction.

By implementing a fully open and neutral cheering section, the K League intends to ensure a more equitable and welcoming experience for all fans, regardless of which team they support. This change is expected to foster a more positive atmosphere within stadiums and enhance the overall fan experience across the league.

In addition to the away fan section improvements, the league's board also approved other key agenda items. These include the appointment of a player representative to better voice player concerns and the establishment of a stadium certification committee. The committee will likely focus on ensuring that all stadiums meet certain standards for safety, fan comfort, and operational efficiency.