- by Masivuye Mzimkhulu
- on 3 Jul, 2025
Jeonbuk and Ulsan Ready for Another Classic Derby
If you’re a fan of South Korean football, this fixture jumps off the calendar. Every time Jeonbuk Hyundai Motors and Ulsan Hyundai go toe-to-toe, it’s not just a game—it’s a statement. These two clubs sit at the top of K League 1, and when they meet, the energy levels skyrocket.
Their rivalry is rooted in years of nail-biting battles, but when you look at the numbers, Jeonbuk’s superiority stands out. They’ve chalked up 24 wins, while Ulsan have managed to come out on top only eight times in 50 meetings. That’s a gap you can’t ignore, and Jeonbuk fans know it. But don’t let that fool you into thinking this matchup will be anything less than a war.
Recent form? Jeonbuk are flying. They haven’t lost in their last seven, and they’ve picked up five wins in a row. It’s the kind of streak that boosts confidence not just on the field but in the stands. Ulsan aren’t far behind, though—as they’ve managed four wins in their last five outings, showcasing their resilience and firepower. This head-to-head is never a sure thing, and both teams know it’s about more than just history—it’s about who wants it more on the day.
Key Players, Records, and What to Watch For
When players walk out for this clash, all eyes will be on the forwards. Gustavo, Jeonbuk’s Brazilian striker, has developed a knack for popping up in the right place at the right time. His presence rattles defenses, and lately, his finishing has been clinical. On the Ulsan side, Vinicius has injected energy and flair into the attack. He’s a player who isn’t afraid to take risks, and his creativity might be Ulsan’s biggest weapon.
Looking at the league table, Jeonbuk are sitting right on top, but the gap is razor-thin. Ulsan’s hot streak means they’re only a few points behind, setting up a scenario where one result could shift the whole picture. That’s why fans and pundits alike are betting on a tightly-contested affair. Past matches between these two have often ended in draws—17 out of 50, to be exact—and that’s what the experts are whispering again this week.
This isn’t just about numbers, though. The mood around both camps is tense but focused. Training grounds are buzzing with intensity. Coaches are pushing for that extra edge—whether it’s a surprise tactical switch or a motivational talk—and everyone knows what’s at stake. Three points here don’t just boost a team’s standings—they boost belief heading into the home stretch of the season.
- Head-to-head: Jeonbuk 24 wins, Ulsan 8 wins, 17 draws
- Current form: Jeonbuk unbeaten in 7, five wins in a row
- Ulsan: Four wins in last five matches
- Players to watch: Gustavo (Jeonbuk), Vinicius (Ulsan)
The K League 1 title race couldn’t ask for a better script. With both teams matching each other stride for stride, expect nothing less than a fierce ninety minutes where every tackle and pass could be the turning point.