Lee Chun-soo

Lee Chun-soo

Lee Chun-soo was born on July 9th, 1981

Full Name: Lee Chun-soo
Place of Birth: Incheon, South Korea
Zodiac Sign: Libra
Profession: Footballer
Playing Position: Midfielder
Height: 173 cm
Weight: 65 kg
International Debut: 2000

A South Korean professional footballer who played as a winger and is best known for his impressive skills and goal-scoring ability, earning him a spot in the 2002 and 2006 World Cup squads.

Written by: Liam O'Sullivan Liam O'Sullivan

Lee Chunsoo: The Trailblazing South Korean Footballer

Lee Chunsoo is a retired South Korean footballer who made history as the first Korean to play in La Liga, Spain's top division, and went on to represent his country in two FIFA World Cups. Known for his exceptional skills on the field, he earned the prestigious title of Asian Young Footballer of the Year in 2002.

Early Life and Club Career

Born on July 9, 1981, in South Korea, Lee Chunsoo began his professional career with Ulsan Hyundai Horangi in 2001. He burst onto the scene with an impressive debut season, scoring seven goals and providing nine assists in 18 appearances, cementing his place as a rising star in Korean football.

Rise to Prominence

Lee's outstanding performance earned him a spot in the South Korean national team, which reached the semifinals of the 2002 FIFA World Cup. His impressive display on the international stage caught the attention of European clubs, and in 2003, he became the first Korean to sign with Real Sociedad, the runners-up of the 2002-2003 La Liga season.

European Adventure

Although his time in La Liga was marked by inconsistency, Lee's brief stint in Spain was a milestone in Korean football history. He was loaned out to Numancia and later returned to Ulsan Hyundai Horangi, where he rediscovered his form and led the team to success.

In 2008, Lee joined Feyenoord of the Eredivisie, marking his second attempt at European football. However, his stay in the Netherlands was short-lived due to personal issues and difficulty adapting to the new environment.

Return to Korea and Later Career

Lee's return to South Korea was followed by loan spells with Suwon Samsung Bluewings and Jeonnam Dragons. Although his performances were not as spectacular as his early days, he continued to contribute to his teams and remained a respected figure in Korean football.

Awards and Accolades

Legacy

Lee Chunsoo's trailblazing career paved the way for future generations of Korean footballers. His achievements on the international stage and in European leagues have inspired a nation, solidifying his place as a Korean football legend.

Through his journey, Lee Chunsoo has demonstrated the importance of perseverance and adapting to new challenges. His story serves as a reminder that even in the face of adversity, one can overcome obstacles and achieve greatness.

Timeline
1981
Born in South Korea
Lee Chun-soo was born on July 9, 1981, in Incheon, South Korea.
2002
Debuted for South Korea
Lee made his debut for the South Korea national football team in 2002.
2005
Moved to England
Lee moved to England and played for Premier League club Crystal Palace in 2005.
2007
AFC Champions League
Lee won the AFC Champions League with Ulsan Hyundai in 2007.
2011
Retired from Football
Lee retired from professional football in 2011.
Lee Chun-soo

Lee Chun-soo Quiz

What position did Lee Chun-soo play in football?

Score: 0/5
FAQ
What is Lee Chun-soos football career like?
Lee Chun-soo is a South Korean footballer who has played for several clubs, including Ulsan Hyundai, Suwon Samsung Bluewings, and Jeonbuk Hyundai Motors.
What position does Lee Chun-soo play?
Lee Chun-soo plays as a left-back, known for his speed, agility, and attacking prowess.
What awards has Lee Chun-soo won?
Lee Chun-soo has won several awards, including the K League 1 MVP award and the Korean FA Cup with Jeonbuk Hyundai Motors.
How did Lee Chun-soo transition to coaching?
After retiring from professional football, Lee Chun-soo transitioned to coaching, taking charge of the Jeonbuk Hyundai Motors U-18 team and working as an assistant coach for the senior team.
What is Lee Chun-soos personality like?
Lee Chun-soo is known for his humble and dedicated personality, as well as his passion for developing young football players and giving back to the community.

Related People:

Park Ji-sung

45 Years Old

A South Korean midfielder who played for top-tier clubs like Manchester United and PSV Eindhoven, earning a reputation as a tireless and skilled player. He's most known for his impressive work rate and versatility on the pitch.

Lee Dong-gook

47 Years Old

South Korea's all-time leading scorer, a prolific striker who played for clubs like Pohang Steelers and Jeonbuk Hyundai Motors, and represented his country in three World Cups.

Seol Ki-hyeon

47 Years Old

South Korean footballer and manager who played for clubs like Royal Antwerp and Fulham, and later coached the South Korean national team. He's known for his successful playing and coaching career in Asia and Europe.

Ahn Jung-hwan

50 Years Old

South Korean midfielder who scored the golden goal against Italy in the 2002 World Cup, leading to a historic upset and earning national hero status.