Hyun Min’s son attended an LAFC League Cup watch party from a luxurious suite at BMO Stadium in Los Angeles on Tuesday evening.
The 33-year-old Korean superstar has finalized his contract to join the Los Angeles club following ten years with Tottenham Hotspur, according to ESPN sources. LAFC has scheduled a press conference for Wednesday to officially introduce him.
Reports indicate that LAFC will pay a transfer fee of around $26 million, surpassing the $22 million spent by Atlanta United FC for forward Emmanuel Lateras last winter.
The club embraced the enthusiastic cheers from fans thrilled about this significant acquisition, showcasing his son on the stadium’s video screen during the first half. The celebration continued as LAFC secured a 2-1 victory over Tigress, marking their only win in the League Cup.
Los Angeles boasts the largest Korean community outside of Korea, and the vibrant Koreatown is located just a short distance from LAFC’s BMO Stadium.
LAFC aims to make a star out of him, similar to how the Los Angeles Dodgers showcase Shohei Ohtani. The three-time MLB MVP from Japan is on pace to become the greatest Asian player in baseball, drawing fans to Dodger Stadium and boosting the franchise through significant sponsorships and partnerships.
His son’s relocation to California positions him to potentially shine on the field during the 2026 World Cup in North America. He has already announced that he will participate in his fourth World Cup as the captain of his national team.
His son’s final game for the Spurs occurred in Seoul on Sunday, where they played a friendly against Newcastle United that ended in a 1-1 draw. He received a standing ovation and a guard of honor as he was substituted in the second half.
“It was a perfect moment. Sharing these beautiful moments is something I will never forget, and I truly appreciate it—from the fans, players, and the manager who always supported me,” he said.
As a cherished figure at Spurs, he scored 173 goals in 454 competitive matches for the North London club and gained international recognition for his speed, playmaking abilities, and vision on the field.
In Los Angeles, he will reunite with Loris, a standout teammate from Tottenham who joined LAFC as their goalkeeper last season.
This report utilizes information from the Associated Press.
Fan Take: This news is monumental for soccer fans, as it not only marks the arrival of a world-class player in the MLS, but also highlights the growing global significance of the league. His presence could elevate the sport’s profile in the U.S., drawing more fans and talent to the league and ultimately enhancing the competitive landscape.