Legendary Korea Republic goalkeeper Kim Byung-ji retires

Kim (pictured above in blue) leaves the professional game at the age of 46, with a litany of honours and achievements from a career that has encompassed an entire generation of Korean football.

After beginning his career with Sangmu in 1990, Kim spent eight years - starting in 1992 - with Ulsan Hyundai, where he won his only K-League winners medal in 1996. During this time he also received his first international call-up to represent Korea Republic, making his debut in 1995.

He would go on to make 61 appearances for the national team, earning selection to the Taegeuk Warriors squad for the FIFA World Cup in 1998, where he appeared in all three group matches.

For the 2002 tournament, Kim was second-choice behind another legendary Korean shot-stopper, Lee Woon-jae, and had to watch from the bench as the Koreans became the first, and only Asian team to reach the World Cup semi-final.

At club level Kim moved to Pohang Steelers in 2001, then FC Seoul in 2006 and made his final appearance for the Korean national team in 2008, but played at Korea’s highest level for nearly a decade longer. Gyeongnam FC and Jeonnam Dragons.

Known for his colourful haircuts, outstanding ability and exemplary longevity, Kim Byung-ji’s place in the annals of Korean football history is secure.

Photo: AFP