Kang-in Lee: From Shooting Star to World-Class Taegeuk Warrior – A Tribute to the Late Coach Sang-cheol Yoo

A Rising Star Pays Tribute

Kang-in Lee, the 23-year-old football prodigy currently playing for Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), has become a beacon of talent and dedication in the world of football. On June 7, he took to social media to pay homage to a pivotal figure in his life and career: the late coach Yoo Sang-cheol. Sharing a photo of himself as a young boy standing next to Yoo, Lee captioned it with heartfelt words, “Respected teacher, I miss you.” This simple yet poignant message resonated deeply with fans and the football community, highlighting the profound impact Yoo had on Lee’s life.

The Genesis of a Mentor-Mentee Relationship

The bond between Lee and Yoo dates back to 2007, through the KBS entertainment program ‘Fly, Shooting Dori’. The show, which aired from 2005 to 2009, featured young aspiring footballers, with Lee making his appearance in 2007. It was here that Lee first met Yoo Sang-cheol, who served as the head coach of the ‘Dream Team’. This initial encounter marked the beginning of a relationship that would significantly influence Lee’s football journey.

From Youth to Professional Stardom

Kang-in Lee’s rise in football was meteoric. He started playing football seriously by joining the Incheon United youth team in 2008. His exceptional talent soon caught the eye of international scouts, and in 2011, he joined the prestigious Valencia CF youth team in Spain, immersing himself in the advanced football culture of the country.

Lee’s professional debut came on December 15, 2017, when he was called up to Valencia’s Mestalla, the B team, and included in the bench list for a Segunda Division B (third division) game. Just a week later, he made his debut on December 21, entering as a substitute at the age of 16 years and 7 months. This marked the beginning of his professional career.

In July 2018, Lee extended his contract with Valencia, and by October 2018, he had made his first-team debut in the Copa del Rey round of 32 against Ebro. However, after a period of internal conflict within the club, Lee moved to RCD Mallorca in 2021. It was here that he truly flourished, becoming the team’s ace during the 2022-2023 season, where he played in 36 league games, scoring six goals and providing six assists.

Transition to PSG

Lee’s stellar performances attracted interest from major clubs, including Atletico Madrid and French giants PSG. Eventually, Lee chose to transfer to PSG before the 2023-2024 season, embarking on a new chapter in his career. In his debut season at PSG, Lee made significant contributions, helping the team secure the top spot in the French Ligue 1, Coupe de France (FA Cup), and the Tropez des Champions (Super Cup). He also played a crucial role in PSG’s journey to the semifinals of the UEFA Champions League.

International Glory

Lee’s prowess extends beyond club football. He garnered global attention by leading South Korea to the finals of the FIFA U-20 World Cup in 2019, where his performances were nothing short of spectacular. His success continued at the 2022 FIFA Qatar World Cup, where he represented Korea and showcased his skills on the world stage.

In a recent match on June 6, during the 2026 North and Central America World Cup Asia 2nd qualifying round Group C, Lee scored multiple goals against Singapore, contributing to a 7-0 victory for South Korea. This performance added to his tally of nine goals in 28 A matches, underscoring his importance to the national team.

A Mentor’s Lasting Legacy

Despite his success and fame, Lee’s tribute to Coach Yoo Sang-cheol reveals a deep sense of gratitude and respect. Coach Yoo, a celebrated player from the 2002 Korea-Japan World Cup semi-final team, was a versatile and influential figure in Korean football. Diagnosed with stage 4 pancreatic cancer in October 2019, Yoo’s battle with the disease ended on June 7, 2021, when he passed away at the age of 50.

The relationship between Lee and Yoo transcended the typical coach-player dynamic. Yoo’s guidance during Lee’s formative years laid a foundation for the young player’s future achievements. The mentorship provided by Yoo was crucial in shaping Lee’s approach to the game, instilling in him the values of hard work, dedication, and humility.

Memorial and Commemoration

On May 29, just days before the third anniversary of Coach Yoo’s passing, Incheon United held a memorial service in collaboration with the Ulsan club. This tribute took place during an important home game against Ulsan. The event was significant as Yoo spent his last days as a player in Incheon in 2019 and concluded his playing career in Ulsan in 2006. Both teams came together to honor the legacy of Coach Yoo Sang-cheol, reflecting the deep respect and admiration he commanded across the Korean football community.

Reflections and Aspirations

As Kang-in Lee continues to evolve as a player, he carries with him the lessons and memories imparted by Coach Yoo. His tribute on social media is a reminder of the human connections that underlie professional sports. It highlights the mentors who shape the careers of young athletes, often providing the support and guidance necessary for them to reach their full potential.

Lee’s journey from a young boy on a television show to a world-class footballer is a testament to his talent and determination. It is also a reflection of the enduring influence of Coach Yoo Sang-cheol. As Lee continues to make strides on the international stage, the memory of his respected teacher remains a source of inspiration.

The Road Ahead

Looking forward, Lee’s career promises even greater accomplishments. At PSG, he has already made a significant impact and looks poised to become one of the leading figures in European football. His versatility, vision, and technical skills make him a valuable asset to any team he plays for.

For the South Korean national team, Lee is a key player whose contributions will be vital in upcoming tournaments and qualifiers. His ability to perform under pressure and deliver crucial goals and assists makes him an indispensable part of the squad.

Conclusion

Kang-in Lee’s tribute to Coach Yoo Sang-cheol is more than a mere acknowledgment of a mentor’s influence; it is a heartfelt expression of gratitude and respect. As Lee continues to shine on the global stage, he embodies the spirit and teachings of Coach Yoo, reminding us of the profound impact that mentors can have on their protégés. The world watches as this ‘shooting star’ continues to ascend, carrying with him the legacy of a true Taegeuk warrior.