Lee Kang-in

Incheon United & Flyings FC (2009-2011) - Began his youth football journey in South Korea, displaying immense technical promise at a very young age.

Valencia CF Academy (2011-2017) - Relocated to Spain to join the prestigious La Liga academy, where he refined his world-class playmaking abilities.

Lee Kang-in's extraordinary football journey began when he moved to Spain in 2011 to join the prestigious Valencia CF youth academy. He progressed rapidly through the youth ranks, making his senior debut for Valencia's reserve team in 2017. In October 2018, he made his first-team debut, becoming the youngest South Korean player to ever appear professionally in Europe and the youngest foreign player in Valencia's history.

Seeking consistent playing time to maximize his creative potential, Lee transferred to fellow La Liga side RCD Mallorca in 2021. During the 2022-2023 season, he enjoyed a massive breakout campaign, establishing himself as one of the premier dribblers and chance creators in the Spanish top flight. His ability to beat defenders and deliver spectacular set-pieces attracted heavy interest from Europe's elite clubs.

In July 2023, Paris Saint-Germain signed Lee on a long-term contract. He quickly adapted to the intense spotlight of the French capital, becoming a highly effective winger and attacking midfielder. Lee helped PSG secure consecutive Ligue 1 titles in his first few seasons, while also lifting multiple domestic cups and asserting himself in the UEFA Champions League.

The 2025 and 2026 seasons marked his transition into a core starting role for the Parisian side. Competing against some of the best players in the world for playing time, his elite vision and set-piece delivery proved indispensable to PSG's high-powered offensive system. He continued to mature tactically, improving his defensive work rate while maintaining his attacking flair.

Internationally, Lee won the Golden Ball at the 2019 FIFA U-20 World Cup, leading South Korea to a historic runner-up finish. He made his senior debut later that year and played a crucial role in the 2022 FIFA World Cup, famously providing an assist against Ghana. After leading South Korea to an Asian Games Gold Medal in 2023, he enters the 2026 FIFA World Cup as the nation's premier creative force.

Lee Kang-in was born in Incheon, South Korea, as the youngest of three children. His father, Lee Woon-seong, was a taekwondo instructor and an avid football fan who deeply admired Diego Maradona. Lee's exceptional talent was first introduced to the South Korean public when he starred in the reality TV show 'Fly Shoot Dori' at just six years old, making him a household name before he ever moved to Europe.

Off the pitch, Lee is known for his immense popularity and marketability, frequently ranking high on the Forbes Korea Power Celebrity list alongside K-pop idols and actors. As of 2026, his net worth is estimated at approximately $15 million, bolstered by his lucrative PSG contract and numerous high-profile endorsements across Asia. He remains deeply appreciative of the sacrifices his family made when relocating to Spain during his childhood.

As of 2026, Lee remains officially single, focusing entirely on his demanding professional career in Paris and his duties with the national team. While he faced intense media scrutiny following a highly publicized dispute with veteran players during the 2023 Asian Cup, he demonstrated immense maturity by publicly apologizing and reconciling with the team. He enters the 2026 World Cup focused and unified with his compatriots.