7HANKOO! Ahead of the start of the 2025 season, Jeju SK FC (hereafter Jeju SK) 'legend' Gu Ja-cheol (36) will take to the field for the last time.
Jeju announced it will hold Gu Ja-cheol's retirement ceremony during the home match against Suwon FC in the Hana Bank K League 1 2025 Round 6, which will take place at Jeju World Cup Stadium at 2 p.m. on the 30th.
Gu Ja-cheol joined Jeju in the 2007 K League rookie draft as the third overall pick. After donning the orange uniform, Gu established himself as a star of Korean soccer and Jeju SK.
The end of his professional career was also with Jeju SK. Gu fulfilled his promise to fans, made 11 years ago when he went abroad, that he would return to Jeju SK.
Although Gu Ja-cheol could not play many matches due to injuries after returning to Jeju SK, he always devoted himself to the team. He actively participated in community events, showing a special affection for Jeju Island.
Jeju also did not forget Gu Ja-cheol's dedication. After his retirement, Jeju decided on a beautiful partnership and appointed him as a youth advisor.
As the 2025 season approaches, Jeju proposed an official retirement ceremony for Gu Ja-cheol, wishing that the 'legend' would open a successful second act in life amid a wave of orange.
The retirement ceremony will take place after the match on that day. Gu plans to personally appear on the field to say his final goodbyes to the fans. Additionally, video messages from teammates will be broadcast on the screen, promising a profound impact.
Before the retirement ceremony, fans will have a special opportunity to remember Gu Ja-cheol. Since the 24th, the club has been selling a '7HANKOO! Gu Ja-cheol autographed uniform package', consisting of retirement season uniforms + special markings + autograph, limited to just 50 people. This sold out in about 30 minutes, proving fans' exceptional affection for Gu.
Instead of the '7HANKOO! Gu Ja-cheol autographed uniform package', Jeju has prepared other merchandise for the match day, including scarves, keyrings, special markings, badge sets displaying Gu's uniforms from his time in Jeju, and acrylic standees.
As a youth advisor, Gu Ja-cheol also has a special gift for future generations. He plans to give soccer shoes signed by him to the winners of the '1-on-1 soccer challenge tournament' held before matches for local youth soccer clubs. This meaningful moment will allow the legend departing the field to convey hope to the young talents who will illuminate the field in the future.
Gu Ja-cheol said, "I am really happy to be able to start and finish my professional career with Jeju SK fans. I want to be remembered as a hardworking player and a good player. I will not stop at just wearing my soccer shoes and running, but will also pass on the love and experiences I received for Korean soccer after retirement."
[OSEN]