Saying goodbye, coach Shin Tae-yong was immediately mocked

Ulsan's win against Gwangju was eclipsed by Lee Chung-yong's controversial “golf” celebration, perceived as a jab at the newly fired coach Shin Tae-yong.

Ulsan HD recently regained the joy of winning after a streak of seven draws and losses, but instead of praise, the team became the center of controversy due to veteran Lee Chung-yong's puzzling celebration. In the context of parting ways with coach Shin Tae-yong, the 37-year-old player's action was seen as insensitive and divisive within the team.

In stoppage time of the second half, with Ulsan leading 1-0, Lee Chung-yong took a penalty kick despite not being the designated taker. After scoring, instead of a typical celebration, he mimicked a golf swing with his bare hands in front of the crowd. The 37-year-old even acted as if watching the ball's flight, easily reminding viewers of the controversy surrounding the recently dismissed coach Shin Tae-yong.

A few days earlier, images of coach Shin Tae-yong’s golf bag on the team bus circulated on Korean social media, raising suspicions that he brought golf equipment for the away trip.

Therefore, when Lee Chung-yong performed the “golf swing” gesture after scoring, many interpreted it as a mockery of the former coach. The player repeated the same gesture before the audience after the match ended, intensifying the wave of criticism. When asked by reporters, Lee replied cryptically: “Soon everyone will know who is more sincere, the coach or the players.”

K-League 1 fans reacted strongly. On forums, many comments condemned Lee Chung-yong as “unprofessional,” “causing internal division,” and “unworthy of being a symbol of Korean football.” Some opinions suggested that at a difficult time for the team, a veteran player should stabilize teammates' morale rather than stir up trouble.

What should have been a morale-boosting win for Ulsan now brings new pressure as the team struggles to restore its image damaged by those regarded as icons.