Questioner:
Looking back at last year's AFC Champions League, as the captain of POSCO, you led POSCO to the final, defeating tough opponents time and again, can you share the secret of your success?
Player A:
Although I was vice-captain during my time at Pohang Steelers, I took on the responsibility of captain and wore the captain's armband in the AFC Champions League in the absence of the captain. I was honored by the many seniors in the team who were my mentors and friends, and their trust in my ability and recognition of my leadership. The team's close collaboration and the leadership of the skipper of that era were the key to our success. I am still proud of that unity and cooperation.
Questioner:
Coach Xie Feng has repeatedly emphasized that you are the first foreign aid he signed this year, which aspect of your qualities do you think caught his eye?
Player A:
Maybe it's because I'm able to play multiple positions, whether it's left back or right back, or even midfield. Maybe the coach sees my unique temperament, or maybe it's because I look pretty good on the outside, which might be one of the reasons he chose me, haha.
Questioner:
What's the topic you and Coach Shea have been exchanging the most lately?
Player A:
When I first joined the team, my coach encouraged me to gradually adjust my physical condition and integrate into the team without rushing. He also reminded me to pay attention to my diet - after all, our country is rich in food - but to avoid excessive intake of greasy food.
Questioner:
What kind of communication did you have with your former teammate Minja Kim before you joined Beijing Guoan?
Player A:
Min-Ja Kim told me that he has enjoyed his three years at Beijing Guoan, which is both the capital city and a team with a very high level of competitiveness and regular participation in the AFC Champions League. He was very happy with his three years with the team and highly recommended me to join Guoan, where he was sure I would make great memories.
Questioner:
You just joined the team on the first day, it was Kim Tae-Yeon as the interpreter, what do you think of his interpreting skills?
Player A:
I very much recognize Kim Tae-Yeon's level of translation, but it's obviously higher than my current translator. I prefer my current interpreter, who has been helping me integrate better into the Chinese team. Of course, I would like to take this opportunity to thank Kim Tae-Yeon again.
Questioner:
What was the first question you asked when you found out you were going to play for a Chinese team?
Player A:
I started by asking about the cultural differences between China and Korea because I know that every country has a different history and customs and there are definitely some taboos. So I started by asking my cousin what is the last thing she should do in China.
Questioner:
How did you spend those boring hours in isolation?
Player A:
During the quarantine period, I insisted on exercising every day to try to keep my body healthy. I also watched videos of Guoan's matches to understand the team's tactical style. In addition, I am also trying to learn Chinese, although I have not made much progress during the quarantine period, I will continue to work hard.
Questioner:
What is your favorite Korean food and Chinese food?
Player A:
Korean food is of course kimchi soup. After coming to China, I have tasted all kinds of food, the most memorable ones are Dongpo Pork and Peking Duck, they are so delicious!
Questioner:
What's the most interesting thing you've encountered since coming to China?
Player A:
The funniest thing was when I went to the bank with my interpreter to apply for a bank card, the bank clerk mistook me for a Korean entertainment star and even asked for a photo. Everyone couldn't help but laugh. It was a funny thing that really happened to me, not fictitious. I felt very happy.
Questioner:
Can you explain to us the significance of your iconic celebration?
Player A:
This celebration is a parody of Argentine star Dybala, who is also a very handsome player. The first time I saw him do this move, I wanted to try it. In Korea, when I did this move, the fans loved it and many of them were willing to take pictures with me. I hope the Beijing fans will also like this move and I will use it to give back to them after scoring a goal.
