Ulsan HD holds a narrow edge in the 2026 K-League 1 runner-up market as traders weigh its strong goal difference and consistent results that have kept it in second place behind FC Seoul through the split rounds. Daejeon Hana Citizen and FC Anyang sit close behind, fueled by recent turnaround momentum—Daejeon climbing into the upper half of the table with improved attacking output—and Anyang’s solid mid-table points haul that positions it for a potential surge in the championship group. Jeonbuk Hyundai Motors, Jeju SK, and several others cluster tightly due to comparable records, head-to-head splits, and the format’s emphasis on late-season form, where small margins in goal difference and remaining fixtures can shift final standings quickly. This bunching reflects the league’s depth, with no team securing a decisive advantage heading into the decisive phase.