Lee Dong-gook, South Korean footballer

Lee Dong-gook (Korean: 이동국, Korean pronunciation: [i.doŋ.ɡuk̚]), born on April 29, 1979, is an iconic South Korean former professional footballer, celebrated for his prolific career as a striker. Renowned for his remarkable goal-scoring ability and exceptional longevity, he has left an indelible mark on both domestic and international football.

A Storied Club Career and Unmatched K League Legacy

Throughout his extensive club career, Lee Dong-gook became a legendary figure in the K League 1, South Korea's premier professional football division. His unwavering commitment and consistent performance saw him etch his name into the history books as the record scorer in the K League 1, a testament to his enduring prowess in front of goal. This unparalleled achievement underscores his significance in the landscape of South Korean club football, establishing him as one of the most celebrated domestic players of all time.

Ventures into European Football

Beyond his dominant domestic career, Lee Dong-gook also embarked on brief but significant spells in European football. These experiences included playing for German Bundesliga side Werder Bremen and English Premier League club Middlesbrough. While these stints offered valuable exposure to different footballing cultures and high-level competition, they were temporary interludes in a career largely defined by his success in Asia.

International Pedigree: A Stalwart for South Korea

Lee Dong-gook's dedication extended to the international stage, where he proudly represented the South Korean national team, often referred to as the "Taegeuk Warriors," for over two decades. Since making his debut in 1998, he earned an impressive 105 international caps, showcasing his consistent presence and importance to the national squad. During this distinguished period, he netted 33 goals for his country, making him one of South Korea's all-time leading international scorers.

Major Tournament Appearances

A Legacy of Longevity and Retirement

Lee Dong-gook's career was also remarkable for its incredible longevity. He holds the distinction of being the oldest Korean player to still actively compete in professional football at the time of his retirement, a testament to his exceptional physical conditioning and unwavering passion for the game. This illustrious career culminated in his announcement in October 2020 that he would retire from professional football at the end of the 2020 season. His departure marked the end of an era, leaving behind a rich legacy of records, goals, and inspiration for future generations of South Korean footballers.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What position did Lee Dong-gook primarily play?
Lee Dong-gook was a professional footballer who predominantly played as a striker, known for his goal-scoring ability.
What significant records does Lee Dong-gook hold in South Korean football?
He is the all-time record scorer in the K League 1, South Korea's top football league. Additionally, at the time of his retirement, he held the record for being the oldest Korean player to still play professionally.
Did Lee Dong-gook play for any European clubs?
Yes, he had brief stints with European clubs, specifically Werder Bremen in Germany's Bundesliga and Middlesbrough in the English Premier League.
How many international appearances and goals did Lee Dong-gook achieve for South Korea?
He earned an impressive 105 international caps for the South Korean national team and scored 33 goals during his time representing his country.
When did Lee Dong-gook announce his retirement from professional football?
Lee Dong-gook announced his retirement from professional football in October 2020, concluding his distinguished career at the end of the 2020 season.