Biography
Who is Lee Chun-soo?
Early life and education
Lee Chun-soo was born in Incheon, South Korea, where he began playing football during his elementary school years. He attended Bupyeong Elementary School, Bupyeongdong Middle School, and Bupyeong High School, developing his athletic skills despite financial challenges his family faced during his youth.
After finishing high school, Lee entered Korea University in the year 2000. He left the university during his second year to begin his professional football path by joining Ulsan Hyundai Horang-i.
Professional club career
Lee began his professional career with Ulsan Hyundai Horang-i in February 2002. During his first season, he recorded seven goals and nine assists in eighteen appearances, helping his team finish as runners-up and earning the K League Rookie of the Year award. He later won the league title and the MVP award with Ulsan.
In July 2003, Lee signed with Real Sociedad for a transfer fee of US$3.5 million, becoming the first South Korean player to join a La Liga club. Throughout his career, he also played for Club Deportivo Numancia de Soria, Feyenoord, Suwon Samsung Bluewings, Jeonnam Dragons, Al-Nassr, and Incheon United FC, finishing his playing career in 2015.
International career and achievements
Lee scored ten goals in seventy-eight appearances for the South Korea national team between 2000 and 2008. He played in all seven matches as his team reached the semifinals of the 2002 FIFA World Cup. At the 2006 FIFA World Cup, he scored a free kick against Togo during South Korea's first World Cup victory outside their own country.
He also competed at the 2000 and 2004 Summer Olympics and helped South Korea secure a third-place finish at the 2007 AFC Asian Cup. His performances on the field established him as a prominent figure in South Korean football history.
Post-playing activities
Following his retirement from professional play, Lee transitioned into football administration, television commentary, and media work. He engaged with fans through digital platforms and television appearances, utilizing his extensive experience in professional sports to comment on matches and events.
His transition from the pitch to media and administrative roles allowed him to remain active within the football community, sharing his insights on the sport and his past experiences as a professional athlete.
Birthday and age
Lee Chun-soo was born on July 9, 1981, which makes Lee 45 years old today. That birthday falls under the Cancer sign. Lee shares the date with 69 other famous people.
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