K League Legend Lee Dong-gook Appointed Technical Director of New Club Yongin FC

K League’s all-time top scorer and former South Korea international striker Lee Dong-gook has been appointed as the Technical Director of Yongin FC, a newly established club aiming to join the K League 2 from next season.

The city of Yongin officially confirmed the appointment on Wednesday, as the club’s foundation project continues to gather momentum. Lee, 46, will take charge of Yongin FC’s football operations, including squad building, youth development systems, and long-term strategic planning.

Yongin Mayor Lee Sang-il personally handed the letter of appointment to Lee Dong-gook, urging him to utilise his vast playing experience and leadership qualities to build a distinctive and competitive football club for the city.

Speaking after his appointment, Lee Dong-gook said:

“I’d like to thank Mayor Lee Sang-il and the citizens of Yongin for giving me this opportunity to be part of Yongin FC’s foundation. I will do my utmost to help shape a club that stands apart from existing professional teams.”

Lee is one of the most decorated strikers in South Korean football history. He represented the national team in two FIFA World Cups (1998 and 2010), earning 105 caps and scoring 33 goals for his country. At club level, he remains the K League’s all-time leading goalscorer with 228 goals, and holds the distinction of being the first player in league history to record 70 goals and 70 assists.

His legendary status was further cemented when Jeonbuk Hyundai Motors permanently retired his number — the first such honour in the club’s history.

Since his retirement in 2017, Lee has remained active in football through various roles including vice-president of the Korea Football Association and a prominent TV pundit. Now, he embarks on a new chapter in football administration as Yongin FC prepares to enter the professional ranks.

Yongin FC is expected to submit its application to join the K League 2 in time for the 2026 season, with Lee Dong-gook now spearheading the technical foundations of the club.