The controversy between South Korean national team captain Son Heung-min and Lee Kang-in, a rising star, has been making headlines. Recently, tensions between Lee Kang-in and Son Heung-min have drawn significant attention. The conflict arose within the national team. On the eve of the semifinal match in the Asian Cup, after dinner, Lee Kang-in and other young players were playing table tennis when Son Heung-min intervened to stop them. During the scuffle, Son Heung-min suffered a finger fracture but still participated in the Asian Cup semifinal match.
Following the defeat in the Asian Cup quarterfinals against Jordan, this incident gained media coverage. Lee Kang-in posted an apology on social media, saying, “I should have followed the seniors’ advice and not shown an unfavorable side to football fans. I apologize to those who were disappointed.” However, the fact that his apology automatically disappeared after 24 hours has raised doubts about its sincerity.
Many South Korean citizens are criticizing Lee Kang-in for not heeding the words of senior captain Son Heung-min.
While it’s acceptable to reprimand a young player, I oppose removing him from the national team.
during a K-league match, Lee Young-pyo, a key member of the World Cup squad in 2002, received a slap from an opponent after persistent defending. The referee even asked Lee Young-pyo to apologize because the opponent was a senior player. TV commentators at the time also emphasized that “Lee Young-pyo is a junior player, and this behavior is unacceptable toward a senior.” Lee Young-pyo humbly apologized to a senior player.
Looking back on the incident 20 years ago, the majority of Koreans may have thought it was appropriate to get slapped by Lee Young-pyo. Let’s consider whether calling Lee Kang-in unprofessional is no different from the explanation at the time of Lee Young-pyo’s incident.
While South Korea’s Confucian and community culture is valuable, we shouldn’t stifle young talents. In team sports such as soccer, respect for leadership and the team must be separated from hierarchy.
I hope Lee Kang-in learns to respect the nation and the team. Let’s also ensure that valuable individuals are not buried under our criticism.
I end this article hoping that all conflicts in the world will be eliminated.