**Gwangju FC sits deep in last place with just 12 points from 25 matches and a -38 goal difference, making them the primary candidate for the additional relegation spot alongside Gimcheon Sangmu.** The 2026 K League 1 format features a split after the regular triple round-robin into a top-six Championship group and bottom-six Relegation group, with the final positions determining outcomes under adjusted rules tied to the league's expansion to 14 teams in 2027. Gimcheon Sangmu faces automatic relegation to K League 2 regardless of finish due to the military club's relocation, removing one traditional automatic drop. This leaves the 12th-placed side (excluding Sangmu) facing a promotion-relegation playoff against a K League 2 side, while teams finishing 10th or 11th could also enter playoff contention depending on results. Recent form shows Bucheon FC 1995 climbing out of the lower reaches with strong August results, including wins over Gangwon, Jeonbuk, and Pohang, tightening the mid-table battle around 30-34 points. The remaining schedule, including direct clashes among the bottom sides and the Relegation group round-robin, will shape whether Gwangju's deficit proves insurmountable or if improved sides like Daejeon, Incheon, or Anyang slip into danger. Trader consensus on the number or identity of relegated teams reflects these structural nuances and Gwangju's ongoing struggles more than standard season-long patterns.