Gimcheon Sangmu faces automatic relegation from K League 1 in 2026 regardless of final position due to league expansion and military team regulations, which directly influences how many additional spots open for K League 2 sides. The season structure splits into championship and relegation phases after the initial round-robin, with the bottom six entering a high-stakes single round-robin from late October that determines direct drops and promotion-relegation play-offs. Gwangju FC sits last with a severe goal difference and minimal points after recent heavy defeats, while mid-table sides like Incheon United and Daejeon Hana Citizen battle for safety amid tight form and head-to-head results. New U22 squad rules effective this season add roster management pressure on clubs fighting to avoid the bottom group.