Ki Sung-yueng Joins Pohang Steelers: South Korean Legend Reunites with His Roots in Shirt No. 40

Pohang Steelers have officially confirmed the signing of veteran midfielder Ki Sung-yueng, marking one of the K League's most high-profile acquisitions of the 2025 summer window. The 35-year-old returns to his birthplace of Gyeongsangbuk-do to don the iconic black-and-red kit of Pohang, choosing the number 40 shirt in tribute to the year he first began his professional journey.

The move ends Ki’s second stint with FC Seoul, the club where he launched his career in 2006. Now, two decades on, the 110-cap South Korean international embarks on what could be the final chapter of a storied playing career.

A Glorious Career Spanning Three Continents

Ki Sung-yueng is widely regarded as one of South Korea’s most accomplished midfielders of the modern era. After breaking through at FC Seoul, his performances earned him a move to Scottish giants Celtic in 2010. He quickly established himself in Europe with his vision, passing range, and composure in possession.

His Premier League career began with Swansea City, where he became a mainstay in midfield. Successful spells at Sunderland and Newcastle United followed, with his Premier League appearances totalling over 160 matches. A brief spell in La Liga with Mallorca further added to his résumé, showcasing his ability to adapt across Europe’s top leagues.

Internationally, Ki was a pillar of consistency for South Korea. He represented the Taeguk Warriors at three consecutive FIFA World Cups (2010, 2014, 2018), won a bronze medal at the 2012 London Olympics, and captained the national side to a runners-up finish in the 2015 AFC Asian Cup. His total of 110 senior caps stands among the most by any Korean outfield player, and his leadership qualities earned him the national team armband for several years.

Why Pohang, Why No. 40?

Ki’s decision to join Pohang was met with excitement and curiosity. A rare move between K League clubs for a player of his stature, the switch is seen as both symbolic and strategic.

“I’m excited and a little nervous. This is my first transfer within Korea, and I wanted to start again with the same heart I had when I first turned professional,” Ki explained. “That’s why I’ve chosen shirt number 40—it’s a reminder of where I began.”

The number is a nod to the year 2006, when Ki began his professional career at FC Seoul aged 17. Now, nearly 20 years on, he returns not just as a player but as a mentor and leader.

With his elite passing accuracy, long-range distribution, and ability to dictate tempo, Ki is expected to become the metronome of Pohang’s midfield. His tactical intelligence and calmness under pressure could be the key to unlocking another level in the Steelers’ possession-based build-up play.

Leader, Mentor, Symbol

Beyond his technical attributes, Ki’s arrival brings immense intangible value. Pohang, known as a club with a deep pool of young talent, will benefit greatly from the presence of a seasoned international who has seen the game at its highest level. His experience is expected to serve as a guiding compass for the club’s emerging players, while also reinforcing the leadership core of the senior squad.

As Pohang aim for a strong finish in the 2025 K League 1 campaign, Ki’s presence could prove pivotal—not just in midfield control, but in igniting belief across the dressing room and stands alike.

In returning home, donning No. 40, and embracing a mentorship role in one of Korea’s most historic clubs, Ki Sung-yueng is completing a footballing circle. And Pohang may just be the stage where one of Korean football’s great careers finds its final flourish.