Historic 100th Hyundai Derby Set for April 4 in Jeonju

Jeonbuk Hyundai and Ulsan HD are set to clash in the 100th installment of the Hyundai Derby on April 4, 2026, at 2 PM at Jeonju World Cup Stadium. This highly anticipated match marks a milestone in the K League 1, as the two teams have a storied rivalry that has captivated fans for years.

As it stands, Jeonbuk leads the all-time head-to-head record with 38 wins, 24 draws, and 37 losses against Ulsan. The current season sees Jeonbuk sitting in third place with 8 points from 2 wins, 2 draws, and 1 loss, closely trailing Ulsan, who is in second place with 10 points from 3 wins and 1 draw.

The significance of this match cannot be overstated, as it is not just another game; it is a defining moment in the league's history. The Hyundai Derby has been a hallmark of K League rivalries, drawing attention for the fierce competition and for its implications on the league standings. Both teams are eager to assert their dominance, especially with the championship race heating up.

Jeonbuk Hyundai enters this match with a renewed sense of confidence, having recently secured back-to-back victories against FC Anyang and Daejeon Hana Citizen, reaffirming their status as defending champions after winning both the K League 1 and the Korea Cup last season. Jeonbuk's coach, Jeong Jung-yong, has emphasized the importance of maintaining momentum as they face their rivals. “We have to keep our focus and intensity to secure a win,” he said.

Ulsan HD, on the other hand, is determined to break a troubling streak. The team has not won at Jeonju World Cup Stadium since March 2022, and they are eager to end this so-called 'Jeonju Curse.' Under the guidance of manager Kim Hyun-seok, a club legend, Ulsan has shown promise this season, remaining unbeaten in their first four matches. “We are ready to confront our past failures and write a new chapter,” Kim stated confidently.

This derby is particularly notable as it features new managerial faces for both teams. Jeong Jung-yong, in his first season with Jeonbuk, is looking to solidify his legacy by leading the club to victory in such a high-stakes match. Similarly, Kim Hyun-seok is on a mission to prove his worth as Ulsan's head coach, having taken over after a tumultuous season last year that saw the team finish in the lower half of the standings.

The excitement surrounding the Hyundai Derby extends beyond the pitch. On match day, Jeonbuk Hyundai will host a fan experience tour at their dedicated center, enhancing the match day atmosphere for supporters. Special bus routes, including the '1994 route,' will operate to accommodate the influx of fans expected for this historic event.

As both teams prepare for the match, the stakes are high. A victory for Jeonbuk would solidify their position in the title race and extend their lead over Ulsan, potentially setting the tone for the remainder of the season. Conversely, a win for Ulsan would allow them to reclaim their status as title contenders and end a long-standing jinx at Jeonju.

In recent years, both clubs have alternated dominance in the K League. Jeonbuk enjoyed a period of success from 2017 to 2021, winning five consecutive championships, but Ulsan has rebounded strongly, claiming the title for three consecutive years starting in 2022. This back-and-forth rivalry has kept fans on the edge of their seats, with each match carrying the weight of history and the promise of future glory.

As the countdown to the 100th Hyundai Derby continues, both teams are acutely aware of the historical significance of this match. Fans are eagerly anticipating what a thrilling contest filled with passion, skill, and the relentless pursuit of victory. The outcome could have consequences for the rest of the season, making this clash a must-watch for soccer enthusiasts.

With both teams boasting talented rosters, the match is set to feature exciting individual matchups. Jeonbuk's attacking trio, including Mota, Kim Seung-seob, and Lee Dong-jun, will aim to break through Ulsan's solid defense, anchored by goalkeeper Jo Hyun-woo, who is a key player for the team. Ulsan's defensive line, featuring key players like Jang Seung-jin and Choi Seok-hyun, will need to be at their best to withstand Jeonbuk's offensive pressure.

As the teams take to the field, the atmosphere at Jeonju World Cup Stadium is expected to be electric, with fans from both sides rallying behind their clubs. The Hyundai Derby has always been more than just a game; it is a celebration of rivalry, passion, and the love of football that unites supporters across South Korea.

In the end, the 100th Hyundai Derby is not just about the points on the table; it is about pride, history, and the quest for dominance in Korean football. Who will emerge victorious? , but : this match will be etched in the annals of K League history.