Ki Sung-yueng (36), who announced his separation from the professional soccer K League 1 FC Seoul, has directly acknowledged his transfer to Pohang Steelers. A few hours after the official announcement from the Seoul club, Ki candidly shared the background and his feelings regarding the transfer through his social media (SNS).
On the 25th, FC Seoul officially announced their separation from Ki Sung-yueng, saying, "We have decided to temporarily pause our relationship with our franchise star and eternal captain." He was a prominent franchise star who played 198 matches for only one team in the K League, Seoul.
Seoul explained, "This decision was made after Ki Sung-yueng confirmed that he was excluded from this season's Seoul team operations, and he requested to go to a team where he could play more to complete a more meaningful player career, which the club accepted."
That same evening, Ki revealed his feelings through an SNS post, stating, "Recently, I heard from manager Kim Gi-dong in a conversation that I am not included in future team plans. I thought it was time for retirement, but my family and the soccer colleagues I trust and rely on urged me that I am still fit to continue playing." He continued, "Upon calmly reflecting on myself amid the confusion, I realized that I still want to play and that my desire to continue is strong. Even if I can only play for a few minutes, suppressing this desire is painful and difficult as a player."
"While I was waiting for a team that needed me, Pohang manager Park Tae-ha was the first to contact me, and I felt his sincerity," he shared, explaining his decision to transfer to Pohang.
He also expressed his complex feelings toward Seoul fans. He said, "I have never imagined my player career outside of Seoul when returning to Korea. I still find this situation unfamiliar, and thinking of the Seoul fans, I still have trouble sleeping. I only feel a sense of regret," adding, "I ask for your support so that I can pour everything into the remaining time and repay you with a happy soccer playing appearance."