Ki Sung-yueng, South Korean footballer
Ki Sung-yueng (Hangul: 기성용; Hanja: 奇誠庸; Korean pronunciation: [ki.sʌŋ.joŋ]), born on 24 January 1989, is a highly respected South Korean professional footballer. Recognised for his exceptional talent and versatility, he primarily operates as a central midfielder or a defensive midfielder, currently showcasing his prowess for the K League 1 club FC Seoul.
A Distinguished International Career: South Korea Centurion
Ki Sung-yueng's contributions to the South Korean national team are nothing short of legendary. From 2008 to 2019, he was a pivotal figure, earning over 100 caps for his country. This achievement solidifies his status as a "centurion," a rare feat that underscores his remarkable consistency, enduring presence, and leadership on the international stage.
Representing the Nation on Global Stages
- FIFA World Cups: Ki proudly represented South Korea in three FIFA World Cup tournaments. He was a key member of the squads in 2010 (South Africa), 2014 (Brazil), and notably, he captained the Taeguk Warriors during the 2018 edition in Russia, leading his country against some of the world's top teams.
- AFC Asian Cups: His international journey also includes participation in three AFC Asian Cups. He played a crucial role in the 2011 (Qatar), 2015 (Australia), and 2019 (UAE) editions. His most significant achievement in this competition was guiding his team to the runner-up position in the fiercely contested 2015 final against host nation Australia.
- Olympic Games Success: Beyond senior international tournaments, Ki also showcased his talent at two Olympic Games. He was part of the South Korean Olympic football teams in 2008 (Beijing) and made history in 2012 (London), where he helped secure a bronze medal. This marked a historic moment for South Korean football, as it was their first-ever Olympic medal in the sport.
Club Football Journey: Triumphs in Europe and Return Home
Ki Sung-yueng's club career boasts significant spells in Europe's top leagues, where he garnered critical acclaim and won major silverware, before making a celebrated return to his homeland.
Celtic FC: Scottish Dominance
Ki's European adventure began in Scotland with Celtic FC, where he played from 2009 to 2012. During his tenure with the Glasgow giants, he played a crucial role in their domestic successes, including:
- Winning the Scottish Premier League title in the 2011–12 season, demonstrating his ability to contribute to a championship-winning side.
- Securing the Scottish Cup in the 2010–11 season, further cementing his reputation as a winner.
Swansea City AFC: Premier League Prowess and Player of the Year
Following his successful stint in Scotland, Ki moved to the English Premier League, joining Swansea City AFC in 2012. He quickly became an integral part of the Welsh club, known for his elegant passing, tactical intelligence, and ability to score crucial goals from midfield. His time at Swansea was particularly impactful:
- EFL Cup Victory: In 2013, he was part of the Swansea City squad that famously lifted the EFL Cup (League Cup), securing the club's first major trophy in its history. This landmark win highlighted his contribution to a team that defied expectations.
- Player of the Year Recognition: On 20 May 2015, Ki Sung-yueng's outstanding performances throughout the 2014–15 season were formally recognised when he was overwhelmingly voted Swansea City's Player of the Year. This accolade was well-deserved, as he demonstrated exceptional consistency and a surprisingly prolific scoring touch for a midfielder, netting eight goals in 33 league appearances that season. His precise long-range shots and calm penalty-taking were particular highlights.
FC Seoul: Back to Where it Began
After a period in the English Premier League and a brief spell with Newcastle United, Ki Sung-yueng made an emotional return to FC Seoul, the K League 1 club where he began his senior career. Since rejoining in 2020, he has continued to be a vital asset, bringing a wealth of experience, leadership, and quality to the midfield of one of South Korea's most prominent clubs.
Ki Sung-yueng: Player Profile and Style
Ki Sung-yueng is renowned for his sophisticated playing style, embodying the modern central midfielder. His attributes include:
- Exceptional Passing Range: Capable of delivering precise short passes and incisive long balls that can split defences.
- Tactical Awareness: Possesses a deep understanding of the game, allowing him to dictate tempo, break up opposition play, and initiate attacks.
- Powerful Shot: Known for his ability to strike from distance, contributing a significant number of goals from outside the box.
- Leadership Qualities: Often dictates play from the midfield, organising teammates and inspiring those around him, a quality evident during his captaincy for the national team.
Frequently Asked Questions about Ki Sung-yueng
- What is Ki Sung-yueng's current club?
- Ki Sung-yueng currently plays for FC Seoul in the K League 1, the top professional football league in South Korea.
- How many World Cups has Ki Sung-yueng played in?
- He has participated in three FIFA World Cups: 2010, 2014, and 2018.
- Did Ki Sung-yueng win a medal at the Olympics?
- Yes, he won a bronze medal with the South Korean national team at the 2012 London Olympic Games, a historic achievement for the country in football.
- What major trophies did Ki Sung-yueng win in Europe?
- He won the Scottish Premier League (2011–12) and Scottish Cup (2010–11) with Celtic, and the EFL Cup (2013) with Swansea City.
- Why was Ki Sung-yueng considered a key player for Swansea City?
- Ki was a crucial central midfielder known for his passing, vision, and goal-scoring ability. His exceptional performances in the 2014–15 season, including eight goals, earned him the Swansea City Player of the Year award.
Ki Sung-yueng's career stands as a testament to his enduring talent, leadership, and significant impact across both club and international football. His journey from a promising youth talent to a national icon and a respected figure in European leagues highlights a truly remarkable career.