Yang Sijun, a 22-year-old Chesterfield supporter from South Korea, has been following the Spireites passionately for several years – all from over 5,000 miles away!
Now, he’s embarking on a 12-hour+ flight across the globe to see his beloved team in action for the very first time.
Yang will attend the away fixture at MK Dons on Tuesday and experience the SMH Group Stadium for the first time just four days later when Tranmere Rovers come to town.
We’re thrilled to welcome Yang and his brother to Chesterfield and can’t wait to share this special moment with him.
Ahead of his visit, media assistant Bron Jenkinson caught up with Yang for an exclusive Q&A…
Q: How and when did you start supporting the club?
A: My journey as a Chesterfield FC supporter began in early 2019, and it all started with Football Manager! In the game, I was offered the chance to manage Chesterfield FC, and after several virtual seasons, I transformed the team into one of the world’s greatest clubs – winning 12 consecutive Premier League titles (from the 2031/32 to 2042/43 seasons), 9 Champions League titles, and 7 FA Cups. That experience ignited my passion for the Spireites, and I’ve been a loyal fan ever since.
Q: How excited are you to attend the away fixture at MK Dons and the home fixture against Tranmere?
A: I’m incredibly excited! From the moment I became a Chesterfield supporter, I dreamed of experiencing the energy of a live match. Even watching games on video, the atmosphere created by the Spireites fans is incredible – whether it’s at away games or at the SMH Group Stadium. I can’t wait to sing, cheer, and immerse myself in the experience with the best fans in the world.
Q: Who is your favourite player in the Chesterfield squad?
A: It’s tough to pick just one, but James Berry stands out as a favourite. He’s a huge threat on the wing with his finishing ability. I also have great admiration for Liam Mandeville, who has played such a pivotal role in the team for years. And I have to give a shoutout to Armando Dobra, too. Wingers naturally catch my eye – I used to play as a winger myself!
Q: Is there a team in South Korea you support, and what can you tell the Spireites about them?
A: Yes, I support my local K2 League team, Gyeongnam FC – though Chesterfield FC is always my number one! In South Korea’s football system, teams are typically owned by corporations or local governments. Gyeongnam FC belongs to the latter group. The team has had its moments of glory, finishing as runners-up in the K1 League and even competing in the AFC Champions League.
However, recent years have been challenging, with poor performances and management mistakes leaving the club in financial trouble and at risk of being dissolved despite public funding. Interestingly, many Korean fans are more passionate about European clubs than K League teams. Even with the significant time difference, Korean fans stay up late or wake up early to watch European matches – it’s a true testament to their love for football and European football!
Q: Do you plan on attending more Chesterfield games in the future?
A: Absolutely! Attending these matches is a dream come true, and I hope to make it to more games in the future. Chesterfield has such a special place in my heart, and any opportunity to support the team in person is one I’ll cherish.I’m currently studying computer science at University over here in South Korea, though I’m currently serving in the Republic of Korea Air Force for mandatory military service.
I have a goal to pursue a master’s degree in the UK in the near future. So, I would like to live in the UK for a few years or maybe even a little longer. If that all happens, I’ll likely be able to attend more Chesterfield games. I’m working hard to improve my English so I can make that happen.
Q: What’s your best memory following Chesterfield?
A: My favourite memory has to be the moment we secured the National League title last season. When I started supporting Chesterfield during the 2018/19 season, we were in the National League. Each season, I watched the team grow stronger, and after several attempts, we finally secured promotion back to the Football League. I was watching the decisive game live through National League TV, and seeing the players and fans celebrate on the pitch was unforgettable.
Another standout moment was the FA Cup match against Chelsea. It was special not just because we faced the European champions but also because it was the first Chesterfield game to be broadcast with Korean commentary. The joy of seeing us score against such a prestigious team made it a match to remember.
Q: What would it mean for you to meet Paul Cook and the players?
A: Meeting Paul Cook and the players would be an absolute honour and a memory I’d treasure for life. It would mean the world to me to show them that, even from the other side of the globe, they have my unwavering support. It’s not just about football – it’s about being part of a global family of Spireites!
Everyone at Chesterfield FC would like to wish Yang a safe and enjoyable time in the UK and we can’t wait to give him a special welcome to the SMH Group Stadium when we face Tranmere Rovers.
Be sure to say hello and give him a warm Spireites welcome!
