The National Football Championship declined after the founding of the K League, because professional clubs and famous players didn't take part in it.

The current FA Cup separated from the National Championship in 1996, and two competitions merged again since 2001.

The Korean FA Cup took place after the end of the regular K League season, and was usually completed over a short period.

K League sides were seeded in the 1st round of the tournament proper, but all matches were played at neutral venues, such as Gimcheon and Namhae.

The 2006 edition, for example, started in early March, with rounds also held in April, July, August and November.