Former Birmingham City left-back Lee Myung-jae has returned to South Korea, signing with K League 1 side Daejeon Hana Citizen as he eyes a place in the national team squad ahead of the next World Cup cycle.

The 31-year-old, who spent the first half of 2025 with Birmingham City on a short-term deal, joins Daejeon as a free agent following the expiry of his contract in England. Lee had left K League champions Ulsan HD earlier this year in pursuit of a European breakthrough — a move that underlined his ambition to test himself at a higher level and boost his international credentials.

A Proven Winner Returns Home

Lee is widely regarded as one of South Korea’s most consistent full-backs of the past decade. After rising through the youth ranks at Seoul Joongkyung High School and Hongik University, he joined Ulsan in 2014 and spent nearly a decade at the club, aside from a brief stint with Gimcheon Sangmu during his military service.

He racked up 201 K League appearances, contributing one goal and 28 assists. More importantly, he played a central role in Ulsan’s recent domestic dominance, including their K League 1 three-peat and Korea FA Cup triumph. His performances earned him a spot in the 2024 K League Best XI.

Lee's form also led to international recognition, with a senior South Korea call-up arriving in March 2024. He has since earned seven caps, registering one assist.

A Statement Signing for Daejeon

Daejeon Hana Citizen have been among the most active clubs in this summer’s window, and Lee becomes their sixth addition — following the arrivals of Yeo Seung-won, Kim Bong-soo, Seo Jin-soo, Hernández, and Kim Jin-ya. Lee brings much-needed experience, versatility, and quality delivery from the flanks to bolster Daejeon’s ambitions.

“It's a great honour to join Daejeon,” Lee said. “I’ll bring everything I’ve learned from my championship experiences and do my utmost to help build a stronger team. I’m already looking forward to playing in front of the fans — your support will mean everything to me.”

For both Lee and Daejeon, this signing signals more than just a transfer — it’s a renewed commitment to excellence, with one eye firmly set on the highest stage in international football.