Kim Kee-Hee Bio
Kim Kee-Hee is a South Korean professional footballer who plays as a centre back for Seattle Sounders FC in Major League Soccer. He can also be fielded as a defensive midfielder. Kim has played for teams in the K-League, Qatar Stars League, Chinese Super League, and Major League Soccer. He has also represented South Korea at the national level.
Early Life and Background
Kim Kee-Hee was born on 13 July 1989 in Busan, South Korea. He attended Bukyeong High School, where he began to develop his skills in football. After high school, he continued his education at Hongik University, playing in the University League from 2008 to 2010. His time at university was crucial in shaping his football career, providing him with the foundation needed to transition into professional football.
Path to Soccer
Kim Kee-Hee’s professional journey began in 2011 when he was drafted in the second round of the K-League draft by Daegu FC. He made his professional debut on 5 March 2011, playing the full 90 minutes in Daegu’s opening game of the season against Gwangju FC. His early career included a loan spell at Al-Sailiya in the Qatar Stars League, where he gained valuable international experience. In 2013, he joined Jeonbuk Hyundai Motors, contributing to the team’s success by helping them secure two consecutive K-League titles.
Kim Kee-Hee Career
Early Career (2011–2013)
Kim Kee-Hee’s early career was marked by his debut with Daegu FC, where he quickly established himself as a reliable defender. His performances earned him a loan to Al-Sailiya, allowing him to gain experience in a different footballing environment. In 2013, he made a significant move to Jeonbuk Hyundai Motors, where he played a pivotal role in the team’s defense, helping them win multiple titles during his tenure.
Breakthrough (2014–2017)
Kim’s breakthrough came during his time with Jeonbuk Hyundai Motors, where he became a key player in their defense. His contributions were instrumental in the team’s success, leading to his transfer to Shanghai Shenhua in 2016 for a reported fee of $6 million, which was considered a landmark transfer in Korean football history. He made his debut for Shanghai Shenhua on 5 March 2016, showcasing his skills on an international stage.
Notable Works and Milestones
Kim Kee-Hee’s career is highlighted by his participation in the 2012 London Olympics, where he won a bronze medal with the South Korean U-23 national team. This achievement marked a significant milestone in his career, as it was the first Olympic medal in Korean football history. He later joined Seattle Sounders FC in 2018, winning the MLS Cup in 2019 and further solidifying his reputation in Major League Soccer.
Kim Kee-Hee Award Nominations
Throughout his career, Kim Kee-Hee has been recognized for his contributions to football, particularly during his time with Jeonbuk Hyundai Motors and the South Korean national team.
Kim Kee-Hee Awards Won
Kim Kee-Hee has achieved notable success, including winning the bronze medal at the 2012 London Olympics with the South Korean U-23 national team. His club achievements include multiple K-League titles with Jeonbuk Hyundai Motors and an MLS Cup with Seattle Sounders FC.
Kim Kee-Hee Family
There is limited public information available regarding Kim Kee-Hee’s family background. He has maintained a focus on his professional career, with little disclosure about his personal life.
Personal Life
Kim Kee-Hee has kept his personal life private, with no publicly available information about his marital status or children. His dedication to football has been a significant aspect of his life, as he continues to play at a high level in Major League Soccer.
