2006 Korea National League Season Overview
The 2006 season marked the fourth edition of the Korea National League, which served as the second-highest tier in the South Korean football league system at the time. Spanning from 7 April to 26 November 2006, the season featured a competitive structure divided into two distinct stages, culminating in a high-stakes championship playoff to determine the ultimate winner.
Ultimately, Goyang Kookmin Bank emerged victorious, claiming their third league title in a season defined by high scoring rates and intense competition across the division.
Key Facts
- Champions: Goyang Kookmin Bank (3rd title)
- Total Matches Played: 112
- Total Goals Scored: 310 (average of 2.77 per match)
- Top Goalscorer: Kim Young-hoo (19 goals)
- Most Valuable Player: Choi Jung-min (Goyang Kookmin Bank)
- Longest Unbeaten Run: 10 matches (Goyang Kookmin Bank)
Season Structure and Regular Season
The league format utilized a two-stage regular season. The winners of the First Stage and the Second Stage each earned a direct qualification spot for the championship playoff. This system ensured that teams remained competitive throughout the entire calendar year.
The First Stage
Goyang Kookmin Bank dominated the opening phase of the season. They finished at the top of the table with 26 points from 10 matches, recording 8 wins and only 2 losses. Their impressive +18 goal difference set the tone for their championship campaign.
[ไม่มีภาพประกอบ]
The Second Stage
The second stage saw a shift in momentum as Gimpo Hallelujah rose to the top. They secured 23 points from 10 matches, including 7 wins, to claim the second qualification spot for the playoffs. Hyundai Mipo Dockyard followed closely in second place during this stage, showcasing strong offensive capabilities.
Championship Playoff
The season concluded with a two-legged championship playoff between the stage winners: Goyang Kookmin Bank and Gimpo Hallelujah.
In the first leg, played on 22 November, the teams fought to a 0–0 draw. The decisive action took place on 26 November in the second leg. Goyang Kookmin Bank secured a 2–0 victory with goals from Yoon Bo-young in the 31st minute and Ko Min-ki in the 63rd minute. This resulted in a 2–0 aggregate victory, crowning Goyang Kookmin Bank as the 2006 champions.
Statistical Summary
| Category | Detail |
|---|---|
| Total Goals | 310 |
| Average Goals per Match | 2.77 |
| Biggest Home Win | Kookmin 7 – 0 Gangneung (3 June 2006) |
| Biggest Away Win | KHNP 1 – 5 Korail (3 October 2006) |
| Highest Scoring Match | Hummel 3 – 6 HMD (12 September 2006) |
Individual Awards and Best XI
Individual excellence was recognized through several awards. Choi Jung-min of Goyang Kookmin Bank was named the Most Valuable Player (MVP), while Kim Young-hoo of Hyundai Mipo Dockyard took home the top goalscorer award with 19 goals. Lee Sung-kil of Gimpo Hallelujah was honored as the top assist provider.
Best XI Selection
The league's standout performers were selected for the season's Best XI:
- Goalkeeper: Kim Tae-young (Goyang Kookmin Bank)
- Defenders: Ha Yong-woo (Daejeon KHNP), Lee Chang-keun (Icheon Hummel Korea), Yoon Keun-ho (Seosan Citizen), Yoo Jin-oh (Gangneung City)
- Midfielders: Kim Ki-beom (Busan Transportation Corporation), Choi Myung-sung (Changwon City), Oh Jung-seok (Suwon City), Cho Sung-won (Incheon Korail)
- Forwards: Kim Young-hoo (Hyundai Mipo Dockyard), Park Do-hyun (Gimpo Hallelujah)
Frequently Asked Questions
Who won the 2006 Korea National League?
Goyang Kookmin Bank won the championship, marking their third title in the league.
How many goals did the top scorer score in 2006?
Kim Young-hoo was the top goalscorer of the season, netting 19 goals.
What was the format of the 2006 season?
The season was divided into two stages, with the winner of each stage qualifying for a championship playoff.
Which team had the longest unbeaten run?
Goyang Kookmin Bank achieved the longest unbeaten run of the season, lasting 10 matches.
Who was named the Most Valuable Player?
Choi Jung-min from Goyang Kookmin Bank was awarded the Most Valuable Player title.