SOOP Launches SOOPers Women’s Professional Volleyball Team in Jeonnam-Gwangju

The women’s professional volleyball team SOOPers officially launched at the SOOP Stadium in the Jeonnam-Gwangju Integrated Special City on October 3, according to etnews.com reporting. The newly minted club held a formal inauguration ceremony featuring a regional affiliation agreement, the presentation of the club flag, and the unveiling of its official roster and coaching staff led by head manager Kim Se-jin.

SOOPers Aim to Develop Gwangju with Local Community

During the launch event, club officials introduced the team’s core philosophy and community-focused strategy. SOOPers General Manager Lee Byung-ho outlined a vision connecting the players, coaching staff, local community, and fans. We will ensure that the club and players prepare events together with the community to contribute to the development of Gwangju alongside regional society and other professional sports teams, Lee stated, as reported by etnews.com.

Jeonnam-Gwangju Integrated Special City Mayor Min Hyung-bae welcomed the new franchise to the area. We were worried that professional volleyball might stop in our region, but we are grateful that SOOP took it over and chose Jeonnam-Gwangju as its home base, Min said, according to etnews.com. The mayor added that the club’s strategy aligns with the broader goals of the Jeonnam-Gwangju integration era.

Roster Build and Debut Schedule

The SOOPers received official membership approval from the Korea Volleyball Federation (KOVO) in June, paving the way for the appointment of manager Kim Se-jin and subsequent player recruitment. The organization also revealed its official catchphrase, BUILD TOGETHER, WIN TOGETHER, alongside mascots named Gogo and Gu-gu, and the team’s first-season uniforms.

Club owner Lee Min-won emphasized the team’s commitment to delivering excitement to supporters. We will be loved by fans, grow together with the region, and convey more joy and emotion through volleyball, Lee stated, as cited by etnews.com. I hope the players trust each other through difficult moments and firmly guard the court until the end, and that the fans create moments of joy and emotion together with the players.

The team is scheduled to play its first official match at the KOVO Cup in Yeosu. The SOOPers will then make their V-League debut for the 2026–2027 season in an away match against Heungkuk Life on November 1, followed by their first home match at the SOOP Stadium against Korea Expressway Corporation on November 5.