An altercation involving PSG player Lee Kang In occurred in the Korean national team during the Asian Cup. The target: captain Son.
Kang In Lee caught in the storm, according to the Korean news agency Yonhao, an « incident » occurred when young players from the Korean national team « went to play table tennis (during dinner) and Heung-min Son and other more experienced players complained, » said a representative of the South Korean federation.
When some players left the table, Son and other older players reprimanded them, asking them to sit back down, considering pre-match meals an important moment of cohesion.
« Irresponsible remarks were made towards him, » an unidentified source told The Sun. « In a matter of seconds, the argument spilled into the dining room and the players were separated. Son injured his finger trying to calm everyone down. »
The Sun specifies that Kang In Lee was heavily involved in the altercation. According to Yonhap agency citing a source close to the incident, Son allegedly grabbed Lee Kang-in. The PSG player then reportedly attempted to strike his captain.
Lee Issue Apology
Kang In Lee did not deny the incident, and even apologized in a social media story. « It was reported that I had an altercation with Son before the Asian Cup semi-final, » Lee wrote. « I have caused great disappointment to all football fans supporting the national team. I am so sorry. I should have listened to the older players and I apologize for not showing a good attitude. »
« I apologize to all those who are disappointed in me. I am fully aware of the support of the fans towards me as a player. From now on, I will strive to support the older players and become a better player and person. »
Lee Kang-in admitted that there were 'verbal argument' between him and Son Heung-min and apologized for it on his Instagram story.
Until this moment, there are no further official comments from KFA about the issue between players, or about Klinsmann's issue. pic.twitter.com/ZkwIe7yPf3
— Sungmo Lee (@Sungmo_Lee) February 14, 2024