Q: As the captain of POSCO in the last AFC Champions League, how did you lead the team to beat tough opponents consecutively and make it all the way to the final?
A: At that time, I was a vice-captain at POSCO, and when the captain was absent due to injury, I temporarily assumed the role of captain and wore the captain's armband. Many of the players in the team were older than me, and they recognized my ability and leadership. The team's success was partly due to our unity at the time and partly due to the excellent leadership of the manager. I am still proud of that unity.
Q: Beijing Guoan head coach Xie Feng has repeatedly said that you are the first foreign aid he signed this year, what qualities do you think attracted his attention?
A: I think it's probably my versatility, being able to play multiple positions, from wing-back to midfield. Plus, the manager focuses on the feel of the person, so maybe my outstanding appearance plays a part, doesn't it? Haha.
Q: What have you been discussing most with Head Coach Xie Feng lately?
A: When I first came to the team, the head coach wanted me to gradually recover my physical condition and slowly integrate into the team, not to rush things. He also reminded me to pay attention to my diet as there is a lot of food in China and to avoid greasy food as much as possible.
Q: What kind of communication did you have with Minya Kim before joining Beijing Guoan?
A: Minya told me that he has enjoyed his three years in Beijing, which is the capital city, and that he is playing for a team that has been a favorite to win the championship and also to play in the AFC Champions League. He was very happy with his three years at Guoan and strongly recommended that I join them, and I believe I can make good memories here as well.
Q: On the first day you joined the team, the translator was Kim Tae-Yeon.
A: First of all, I very much recognize Kim Tae-Yeon's level of translation, but certainly not as good as the current translator. I prefer the current interpreter, who has been helping me integrate into the Chinese team. Of course, I would like to take this opportunity to thank Kim Tae-Yeon again.
Q: What was the first question you asked when you found out you were going to play for a Chinese team?
A: The first thing I inquired about was the differences between Chinese and Korean cultures because I know that every country has a different history and civilization and there may be some taboos. That's why I first inquired about what my cousin is least allowed to do in China.
Q: How did you spend your boredom while in isolation?
A: Firstly, I insisted on exercising every day during the quarantine period to maintain my physical condition. Secondly, I watched videos of Guoan's matches to understand the team's techniques and tactics. I also wanted to learn Chinese, but my learning was not effective during the quarantine period and I need to continue to work hard in the future.
Q: What are your favorite Korean and Chinese foods?
A: I recommend kimchi soup for Korean food. After coming to China, I have tasted many cuisines, and the most impressive ones are Dongpo Pork and Peking Duck, which are just too delicious!
Q: What's the most interesting thing you've encountered since coming to China?
A: The funniest thing was when I went to the bank with my interpreter to apply for a bank card, the bank employee mistook me for a Korean entertainment star and even asked for a photo. We all had a good laugh later when we explained it clearly. I would like to say that this is a story that really happened to me, not fiction. I am very happy.
Q: Can you explain to us what your iconic celebration means?
A: This celebration is a parody of Dybala, who is also a very handsome player. After I saw this move for the first time, I really wanted to try it. In Korea, the fans loved it when I did it and many of them would take pictures with me. I hope the Beijing fans will also like this move and I will also use it to reward the fans after scoring a goal.
