Son Heung-min is more than just a footballer—he’s a global icon, a symbol of South Korean pride, and one of the Premier League’s most exciting players. Known for his explosive speed, clinical finishing, and humble attitude, “Sonny” has become a fan favorite not only in North London but around the world.
Whether you’re a long-time Tottenham Hotspur fan or just discovering his brilliance, these Son Heung-min facts will give you a full picture of his journey from South Korea to football greatness.
🌏 Early Life and Background
- Full Name: Son Heung-min (Hangul: 손흥민)
- Born: July 8, 1992
- Birthplace: Chuncheon, Gangwon Province, South Korea
- Height: 6 feet 0 inches (183 cm)
- Father’s Name: Son Woong-jung (former professional footballer)
- Mother’s Name: Eun Ja Kil
- Grew up training under his father, who was extremely strict about technique.
- Dropped out of school early to focus on football full-time.
- Learned German and English to adapt to European football.
- Has an older brother who also played football.
⚽ Youth and Early Career
- Joined FC Seoul’s youth team before moving to Germany.
- At age 16, joined Hamburg’s youth academy in Germany.
- Made his Bundesliga debut for Hamburg SV in 2010.
- Scored his first professional goal in a friendly against Chelsea.
- Became the youngest Hamburg player to score in Bundesliga history at the time.
- Transferred to Bayer Leverkusen in 2013 for €10 million.
- Scored 12 goals in the Bundesliga in his second season with Leverkusen.
- Gained attention from top European clubs for his footwork and pace.
- Nicknamed the “Korean Ronaldo” by German fans.
- Wore jersey No. 7 at Leverkusen—he still wears No. 7 at Spurs.
🐓 Tottenham Hotspur Career
- Signed for Tottenham Hotspur in August 2015 for £22 million.
- Became the most expensive Asian player at the time.
- Made his Premier League debut against Sunderland.
- Scored a brace in his Europa League debut for Spurs.
- Voted Premier League Player of the Month multiple times.
- Formed an iconic attacking duo with Harry Kane.
- Known for scoring stunning long-range goals and solo runs.
- Scored the 2019 FIFA Puskás Award winner vs Burnley.
- Passed 100 goals for Spurs—only the second non-European to do so.
- Became Tottenham’s captain for the 2023–24 season.
🌟 International Career with South Korea
- Made his senior debut for South Korea at age 18.
- Represented Korea at the 2014, 2018, and 2022 FIFA World Cups.
- Scored crucial goals in World Cups—especially against Germany in 2018.
- Captained South Korea to a gold medal in the 2018 Asian Games.
- Winning the Asian Games earned him military exemption.
- Completed basic military training in 2020—finished top 5 in his class.
- Has over 100 international caps for South Korea.
- One of the most followed Asian athletes on social media.
- A national hero and role model in South Korea.
- Known for always bowing to fans as a sign of respect after games.
🏆 Awards and Achievements
- Premier League Player of the Month: multiple times
- FIFA Puskás Award: 2019
- Asian International Player of the Year: several times
- Tottenham Hotspur Player of the Season: multiple seasons
- First Asian player to score 20+ goals in a Premier League season
- First Asian to win the Premier League Golden Boot (2021–22)
- Scored in Champions League, Premier League, FA Cup, and EFL Cup
- Holds the record for most goals by an Asian player in Premier League history
- Consistently ranks in the FIFA Best XI for Asia
- Ranked in TIME 100 Next list as one of the most influential rising stars globally
Why Son Heung-min is More Than Just a Football Star
Son Heung-min is beloved not only for his footballing ability, but also for his humility, sportsmanship, and leadership. On and off the pitch, he represents discipline, grace, and excellence. His success paves the way for young Asian footballers and serves as proof that talent combined with hard work can break all cultural and geographical barriers.
