Kim Jin-su
Overview
Kim Jin-su (born June 13, 1992) is a South Korean footballer who plays as a left-back. He currently plays for Jeonbuk Hyundai Motors in K League 1 and is also known as a member of the South Korea national football team. Based on his outstanding defensive skills, attacking involvement, and accurate crosses, he is regarded as one of the best left-backs in the K League and Asian football.
Main Content
Early Life and Development
Kim Jin-su was born in Jeonju, North Jeolla Province, and showed talent for football from an early age. He attended Jeonju Yeongsaeng Middle School and later honed his skills at Jeonju Yeongsaeng High School, growing into a promising prospect who drew attention during his high school years. He then debuted professionally in 2011 by joining the newly formed K League club Gangwon FC.
Professional Career
Gangwon FC (2011-2012)
At Gangwon FC, he established himself as the starting left-back from his debut season. With his quick speed, aggressive overlapping runs, and stable defense, he played as a key player for the team. In the 2012 season, he appeared in 28 league matches, showcasing his presence.
J.League Stint (2013-2016)
In 2013, he moved to Albirex Niigata in the J1 League, successfully venturing abroad. He quickly adapted to the Japanese stage and was evaluated as a top-tier left-back in the league. Notably, in the 2014 season, he played 30 league matches, recording 2 goals and 5 assists, proving his attacking prowess.
Jeonbuk Hyundai Motors (2017-Present)
In 2017, he returned to the K League by transferring to his hometown club, Jeonbuk Hyundai Motors. He immediately secured a starting position at Jeonbuk and greatly contributed to the team's K League championship. In the 2018 season, he played 33 league matches, recording 3 goals and 6 assists, leading Jeonbuk to a double title. Since then, he has consistently performed well, leading Jeonbuk's defense and helping the team win championships in 2020 and 2021.
National Team Career
Kim Jin-su made his senior national team debut in 2013 during the AFC Asian Cup qualifiers. He subsequently participated in the 2014 FIFA World Cup in Brazil, the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia, and the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar, taking charge of South Korea's left side defense. He gained significant attention, particularly for his contribution to the 2-0 victory over Germany in the final group stage match of the 2018 World Cup in Russia. He won a gold medal at the 2014 Asian Games, earning military service exemption.
Playing Style
Kim Jin-su's greatest strengths are his excellent stamina, speed, and accurate crossing ability. He embodies the typical modern full-back, rapidly moving up and down the left flank to handle both attack and defense. In defense, he has good positioning and excellent tackling timing; in attack, he widens the team's attacking options with aggressive overlapping runs and precise crosses. He is also a threat in set-piece situations.
Honors
- K League 1 Champion: 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021 (Jeonbuk Hyundai)
- FA Cup Winner: 2020, 2022 (Jeonbuk Hyundai)
- AFC Asian Games Gold Medal: 2014
- K League Best XI: 2018, 2020, 2021
Recent Developments
As of the 2024-2025 season, Kim Jin-su remains a key player for Jeonbuk Hyundai Motors. In the 2024 season, he missed some matches due to injury, but after returning, he showed stable performance, leading the team's defense. Ahead of the 2025 season, under Jeonbuk's new coaching system, he maintains an edge in the competition for the starting position and is still regarded as one of the best left-backs in the K League. Additionally, with the national team, he consistently makes the starting lineup amid competition from younger players, continuing preparations for the 2026 World Cup in North America. Recently, he actively communicates with fans through his social media, maintaining a positive image off the pitch as well.
Related Topics
- [[Jeonbuk Hyundai Motors]]
- [[South Korea national football team]]
- [[K League 1]]
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