Laos Premier League side Chamapasak Avenir FC have officially appointed former South Korean international Kim Tae-young as the club’s first-ever head coach. The 53-year-old is set to take charge from July 1, following a rigorous open-audition process conducted by the newly restructured club.

A Landmark Appointment for a New Era

This is the club’s first major managerial decision since DJ Management acquired top-flight outfit Chamapasak United in April and rebranded it as Chamapasak Avenir FC. The appointment was finalized on June 20 after a public audition process that included internal and external evaluators, with final input from key stakeholders.

The club cited Kim’s extensive coaching background, tactical insight on the Asian football landscape, and a strong leadership record with youth development as major factors behind the decision.

From World Cup Warrior to Asian Pioneer

Kim Tae-young rose to prominence as a rock-solid centre-back for Jeonnam Dragons and the South Korean national team. He earned 105 international caps, becoming a member of FIFA’s Century Club, and was famously dubbed the "Masked Warrior" during Korea’s historic run to the semi-finals at the 2002 FIFA World Cup.

As a coach, Kim has held roles at nearly every level of the Korean national team structure — from the U-20s and U-23s to the senior team — and has served on coaching staffs at top K League sides including Suwon Samsung, Ulsan Hyundai, and Jeonnam Dragons. He also managed Cheonan City FC, gaining valuable experience in nurturing young squads under challenging conditions.

Building an Asia-Ready Football Project

Chamapasak Avenir FC’s ambitions go far beyond domestic survival. The club has laid out a long-term plan to represent Laos on the continental stage — targeting participation in competitions such as the AFC Challenge League and the AFF ASEAN Club Championship (Shopee Cup).

Coach Kim’s mission will be to shape the team into a competitive, fan-centric organisation that can eventually challenge the region’s best. With foreign player regulations allowing up to 10 signings and 5 on the pitch per match, the club aims to build a diverse, globally competitive squad — including talent from Korea and other Asian footballing nations.

A Club Rooted in Community and Fans

The new ownership group has also underlined its commitment to “football with the fans” — focusing on building a participatory football culture. Chamapasak Avenir FC plans to develop strong ties with local communities while ensuring fans are central to the club’s identity and progress.

In his official statement, Kim Tae-young shared:

“It’s a great honour to be appointed as the first head coach of Chamapasak Avnil FC. I believe this club has the potential to become not only a leading force in Laos, but a truly competitive team across Asia.”
He added:
“Beyond the results on the pitch, I’ll be working to create a team culture that breathes with the fans and earns trust from the community. Together, we’ll grow.”

With Kim’s appointment, Chamapasak Avenir FC mark a bold first step in their evolution — setting their sights not just on local success, but on becoming a new face of Southeast Asian football.