It was honours even between the 2009 and 2010 AFC Champions League winners on the opening day of the new K-League season as Pohang Steelers were held to a 1-1 draw by current holders Seongnam Ilhwa Chunma.

The first goal of the season came after just three minutes. New Ghanaian attacker Derek Asamoah broke free down the right to send over a delightful cross for Brazilian Mota to head home at the far post.

Pohang continued to have the better of the match but Seongnam drew level on the hour. A weak defensive clearance fell at the feet of Cho Dong-Keon, who lashed a fierce shot that hit the crossbar but Kim Yong-Jin was there to roll the rebound over the line.

Pohang had a great chance to win the game in the last minute when Mota was fouled in the area but Noh Byung-Joon's spot-kick was tipped round the post by Seongnam's new goalkeeper Ha Kang-Jin.

"It wasn't a great performance from us but I am satisfied with the result from a tough opening day fixture," said Seongnam coach Shin Tae-Yong. "Our players are not match sharp so the first match is always going to be difficult. There's a long way to go."

Korea Republic international Yoon Bitgaram carried on where he left off from the 2011 AFC Asian Cup with the only goal of the game as Gyeongnam won 1-0 at Gangwon FC.

Sangju Sangmu started their K-League campaign with a 2-0 win at home to Incheon United thanks to two goals from Kim Jung-Woo while new boys Gwangju FC defeated Daegu 3-2.