K League Korea Finally Allows Foreign Goalkeepers After 26 Years

South Korea’s K League has announced a historic decision — the foreign goalkeeper ban that has been in place for nearly three decades will end starting with the 2026 season.

The regulation implemented in 1999 initially aimed to protect local talent — when there were only 10 professional clubs in Asia’s oldest league.

“With the increase in the number of clubs, there are now enough opportunities for domestic goalkeepers to play even if foreign goalkeepers are allowed,” stated the league board after meeting in Seoul.

The board also considered the issue of local goalkeeper salaries increasing disproportionately compared to other field players. With 26 professional clubs spread across the top two divisions — concerns about lack of playing opportunities for local goalkeepers are no longer relevant.

This decision will align K League with other major Asian leagues — such as competitions in Japan, Saudi Arabia, and China that already allow foreign goalkeepers to compete.