足总杯

The Korean FA Cup, officially known as the Korea Cup, is the premier knockout football competition in South Korea, organized by the Korea Football Association (KFA). Established in 1996, it was initially called the FA Cup before adopting its current name. The tournament was created to provide a platform for all levels of Korean football, from professional K League clubs to university and amateur teams, to compete in a single-elimination format for national glory and a coveted spot in the AFC Champions League. The competition's structure is a straightforward knockout bracket. Teams from the K League 1, K League 2, the semi-professional K3 and K4 leagues, university sides, and even the military team Asan Mugunghwa enter at various stages, creating David-vs-Goliath matchups that are a hallmark of cup football. The early rounds often see professional clubs face lower-league opposition, while the later stages feature intense battles between top-tier teams. The final is traditionally held as a single match at a neutral venue, often Seoul World Cup Stadium, creating a festive atmosphere. Notable clubs with a strong FA Cup pedigree include the Suwon Samsung Bluewings, who hold the record for most titles with five wins. Other frequent contenders are the Jeonbuk Hyundai Motors, FC Seoul, and the Pohang Steelers. The cup has been a stage for legendary Korean players like Lee Dong-gook, who holds the record for most goals in the competition, and international stars such as Dejan Damjanović during his time with FC Seoul. In the current landscape, the FA Cup remains a highly prestigious trophy, offering a direct pathway to continental competition. It often provides a memorable season highlight for clubs struggling in the league. An interesting fact is that the competition has seen surprising runs from lower-league teams, most notably when the National Police Agency team reached the final in 2005. The tournament's timing, with the final often held in late autumn, adds a dramatic conclusion to the Korean football season.