Why Did Son Heung-min Choose LAFC?

Why Did Son Heung-min Choose LAFC?

On August 6, 2025, Son Heung-min officially signed with LAFC (Los Angeles Football Club), leaving behind a decade-long career at Tottenham Hotspur.
After ten years at the top of European football, the move raised a lot of questions:
Why now? Why the U.S.? Why LAFC?
Here’s a breakdown of the key reasons behind Son’s decision—and what it means for both sides.

A photo of Son Heung-min signing his contract with LAFC. He is holding a pen in one hand and signing the LAFC contrac

From Tottenham to LAFC: A New Chapter Begins

Son Heung-min spent 10 years at Tottenham, becoming team captain and leading them to a UEFA Europa League victory.
As the club transitioned into a new era under manager Thomas Frank, Son made the decision to leave, even though the manager and the club wanted him to stay.

It wasn’t about being pushed out.
Son reportedly felt it was the right time to move on, considering his recent injuries, slower recovery time, and evolving role in the team.
Rather than hold on too long, he chose to leave at the right moment and on his own terms.

A photo of Son Heung-min bowing at a 90-degree angle while wearing a Tottenham jersey and draped in the Korean flag.

Why LAFC?

For Son, this wasn’t a move to wind down his career.
He made it clear in an interview: 

“I came to the MLS (Major League Soccer) to win.”

This was a strategic choice built on several clear reasons:

  • Preparation for the 2026 World Cup
    The next World Cup will be hosted in the U.S., Canada, and Mexico.
    It’s likely to be Son’s last.
    Playing in the MLS gives him early exposure to the time zone, climate, playing surfaces, and fan culture of North America—critical for staying in top condition ahead of the tournament.
  • The Appeal of Los Angeles
    LA offers ideal year-round weather, a large Korean community (around 300,000 people), and a comfortable lifestyle.
    It’s not just a city—it’s a home base where Son can live well and focus fully on the game.
  • A Competitive League
    The MLS is currently ranked around 9th globally, and LAFC is one of its top teams.
    This is not a retirement league.
    Son joined a club with real title ambitions and a playing style that suits his strengths.
A photo of Son Heung-min smiling in an LAFC jersey after his transfer to the team was finalized. Next to him, the word “FORWARD” appears alongside the LAFC branding.

Why Did LAFC and the MLS Want Son?

Son Heung-min is more than just a top-level player.
He’s a brand and one of the most influential Asian athletes in the world.

  • Tapping Into the Asian Market
    Ahead of the World Cup, the MLS has been actively trying to expand its reach in Asia.
    Son is the perfect fit.
    His presence brings new fans, boosts jersey sales, and creates opportunities for global sponsorships.
  • A Record-Breaking Transfer—With ROI
    While the reported transfer fee is one of the highest in MLS history, Son’s commercial value makes the investment worthwhile.
    From increased Apple TV subscriptions to global media coverage, his impact will be felt far beyond the pitch.
A photo of Son Heung-min holding up his new jersey, featuring his name and the number 7.

What It Means to Us

For Korean Americans—and Koreans abroad—this move feels personal.
For the first time, we can watch Son play live, in our time zone, in our city.

As a Korean American-founded brand based in Los Angeles, KORELIMITED proudly supports Son Heung-min’s next chapter.
His journey is not just his own—it’s something we all feel connected to.

Let’s cheer him on, together.

A photo from Son Heung-min’s final match with Tottenham, held in Korea, where his teammates lift him into the air in celebration.

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