K League to permit devices, lower age limit this season

Korea’s pro football league announced Tuesday that the use of electronic devices is permitted in the 2019 season, allowing coaches to get real-time data of the match from the bench.

The K League said the use of electronic and communication equipment - such as small handheld mobile devices and headsets - in the technical area is allowed starting in the 2019 season that kicks off March 1.

The International Football Association Board (IFAB), the universal decision-making body for the rules of football, last year approved the use of electronic devices - one for the analyst in the press box and another for the coaching staff on the bench - and such a rule was first applied at the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia.

The IFAB then said that the electronic equipment can only be used for tactical and coaching purposes in addition to helping ensure player safety.

Meanwhile, the K League said for the 2019 season, it decided to give more opportunities to young players by lowering the age limit. Previously, each club had to have two players who are aged 23 or younger on their match roster, but from the upcoming season, this age requirement has been lowered to age 22 or younger.

Yonhap