‘One Clubman for 20 years’ quiet, tearful retirement ceremony

“It’s rewarding to have been with FC Seoul for 20 years.”

After 20 years in professional soccer’s K League 1, FC Seoul’s “one-club man” Ko Yo-han, 36, has held a tearful retirement ceremony.

Ko said goodbye to his fans at a retirement ceremony held after the 2024 K League 1 match between Seoul and Pohang Steelers at Seoul World Cup Stadium on Wednesday. He broke down in tears as he said his final goodbyes in front of fans, family, and teammates.

Ko, who played exclusively for Seoul from 2004 until last year, has cried and laughed with Seoul fans over the past two decades. He played 446 official matches (366 K League, 25 FA Cup, 55 ACL) for Seoul, scoring 40 goals and providing 39 assists. He also won six trophies with the club, including three K League titles (2010-2012-2016), one FA Cup (2015), and two League Cups (2006-2010). He also served as Seoul’s captain for three consecutive seasons from 2018 to 2020.

The club retired his number 13 shirt in recognition of his contributions. After hanging up his jersey at the end of last season, Goyohan transitioned into coaching in February, taking over the reins of Seoul’s U-18 team, Osango.

He received a certificate of merit from the Korean Professional Football Association, a framed jersey and a plaque of appreciation from the club. Fans also prepared gifts for him. Fans hung a large picture of Go’s face and used his name and number to say goodbye with hand signs that read, “Go’od 13ye,” “Go’od is Seoul,” and “Thank you for your hard work, 13 forever.

During the retirement ceremony, Go got teary-eyed as his performance was shown on the scoreboard, along with messages 토토사이트 of support from his parents. “Seoul is the club that gave me my dreams and made everything come true,” he said at the press conference, adding, “It’s very rewarding to have been a part of Seoul’s glory for 20 years. I gave half of my life,” he said of his retirement.

He also talked about his plans for his second life in soccer as a coach. “I’ve only been coaching for four months, but I want to develop players who are dedicated and determined and can play in all positions,” he said, adding, “I want to start my coaching career in Seoul, and if I prepare well, I’ll be able to seize the opportunity.”