Kim Se-jin Returns as SOOP Coach After Seven Years

Kim Se-jin returned to professional coaching on October 11, 2026, taking charge of the SOOP volleyball team for their opening match against IBK Industrial Bank at Jinnam Gymnasium in Yeosu during the 2026 Yeosu-NH Nonghyup Cup professional volleyball tournament.

A Seven-Year Absence Ends on the Bench

The fixture marked both the debut of the SOOP volleyball club and Kim’s first official match back in a head coaching role after a seven-year absence. Following the disbandment of Pepper Savings Bank, SOOP acquired the team. The roster underwent a major rebuild following the departure of core players such as Park Jeong-ah and Lee Han-bi, while new faces including Go Eui-jeong, Seo Ji-hye, and Yu Ga-ram joined the squad.

From Rush & Cash to KOVO Operations

Kim previously managed Rush & Cash—now known as OK Savings Bank—as the team’s first head coach starting in 2013. He left that post at the end of the 2019 season, subsequently working as a commentator and serving as the head of operations for the Korea Volleyball Federation (KOVO) before returning to the bench.

Reflections on Passion and Experience

Speaking to reporters ahead of the opening match, Kim reflected on his time away from coaching. I think I’ve gotten a bit older compared to back then, Kim said with a laugh. It’s not that my passion has dropped, but I find myself thinking more than I used to. It has already been 13 years since I first became a head coach. People say that managing a women’s team will be difficult, but I had prepared myself for that part.

Bridging Willpower and On-Court Technique

Kim assessed the team’s current standing, noting that while the players show strong intent and tactical comprehension, execution remains a challenge. The players’ will to try and their understanding are certainly good, and I’m grateful for that, Kim said. Ideally, that should translate directly into technique, but in sports, things don’t always go the way you mind them to.

Embracing the Burden of Leadership

Addressing the inherent pressures of the job, Kim emphasized the need for patience and preparation. The position of head coach is always a heavy and burdensome role, Kim said. To move in the direction I envision, I ultimately have to invest time. Personally, I have never left the volleyball court. I spent 20 days here in Yeosu last year for the cup tournament as well. Only my position has changed. I want to use my time naturally, just as it has been.