Wikipedia - K League 2

The K League 2 (Korean: K리그2) is the men's second-highest division of the South Korean football league system. It is contested between thirteen professional clubs and operates on a promotion and relegation system with K League 1.

History

In 2011, the original K League announced a plan to begin a promotion and relegation system between the K League and a proposed second division. The K League then took steps to create the new second division, mainly with the addition of a split-system during the 2012 K-League season in which the bottom clubs are placed in a competition for safety with the last placed club being relegated to the new second division (originally it was going to be two clubs relegated but the withdrawal of Sangju Sangmu meant only one would be relegated).

The second division was going to get the name of K League, and the original K League's name was changed to K League Classic along with the new logo. However, the change caused some degree of confusion and controversy, and on 11 March 2013 the official name was changed to K League Challenge. On 22 January 2018, its name was once again changed to K League 2.

The South Korea K League 2 is the second tier of professional football in South Korea, serving as a vital platform for clubs aspiring to reach the top level of the K League 1. Established in 2013, K League 2 features a competitive lineup of teams from across the nation, showcasing emerging talent and providing thrilling matches for fans.

The tournament operates on a promotion and relegation system with K League 1, allowing the top-performing teams in K League 2 to ascend to the premier league, while the lower-ranked teams face the risk of relegation to the third tier. This dynamic structure adds an exciting layer of competition and intensity to the league.

Each season, K League 2 clubs battle it out in a round-robin format, with teams playing each other both home and away. The league typically runs from early spring to late fall, culminating in a playoff system that determines the champion and the team that earns promotion to K League 1.

K League 2 is not only a showcase for established players but also a breeding ground for young talent, making it an essential part of South Korea's football ecosystem. Fans can expect passionate displays of skill, strategy, and sportsmanship as clubs vie for glory and the chance to compete at the highest level of South Korean football.