Paris Saint-Germain’s Kang-in Lee apologized on Wednesday for his role in a locker room incident during the 2023 Asian Cup involving Tottenham Hotspur star and national team captain Son Heung-min.
The incident again came to light, as it was the first time Lee spoke with the South Korean media since the controversial situation. Lee noted that his actions had let so many fans down, and will try to learn from the experience.
“I received so much love and support from fans during the Asian Cup, but I did not reward my fans and I disappointed them,” Lee said (h/t Korea Times US). “I wanted to come here to apologize to them from the bottom of my heart.
“Criticism from everyone will help me down the road. I will try hard to become a better person and a better football player, someone who can help the team and set good examples.”
The entire incident began when Lee and a few younger teammates decided to leave the team dinner early to play table tennis. Nonetheless, the Spurs standout viewed the gathering as a chance for team bonding before the semifinals against Jordan.
However, when Lee declined Son’s request to return to the dinner, tensions escalated, resulting in a physical altercation and Son suffering a dislocated finger.
Following South Korea’s loss to Jordan, details of the incident emerged, and Lee faced public criticism for disobeying Son. In an attempt to make amends, Lee traveled to London to personally apologize to the veteran forward.
