구단 간 운영 편차 검증을 통한 프로축구 K리그의 지속 성장 가능성 분석

초록

This study examined the validity of sustainable development in K League 1 by analyzing operational differences among clubs. Clubs that participated in both the 2023 and 2024 seasons were selected for analysis. Hierarchical cluster analysis was conducted using financial support from parent companies and local governments, as well as player salary expenditures. Differences among clusters were tested using Welch-ANOVA and the Kruskal–Wails test, followed by Games–Howell post-hoc analysis. In addition, dummy variable regression was performed to assess the impact of cluster types on club performance, measured by points and gate revenues. The main findings were as follows. First, K League 1 clubs were classified into three clusters. Cluster A, characterized by relatively low levels of financial support and player salaries, included Pohang, Gangwon, Daegu, Incheon, Gwangju, and Suwon FC. Cluster B, representing a moderate level of financial support and salaries, included clubs such as Seoul and Jeju. Cluster C consisted of Jeonbuk and Ulsan, which showed the highest levels of financial support and player salaries. Second, significant operational differences were identified among clusters. Third, while cluster type did not have a statistically significant effect on club performance in terms of points, it had a significant impact on gate revenues. These findings highlight structural inequalities within K League clubs and suggest that lower-resourced clubs should enhance financial independence, while higher-resourced clubs should contribute to expanding overall league demand.

키워드