Yongin:Son Heung-min has become the all-time male goals leader in South Korean football, achieving this milestone during a friendly match against Uzbekistan. He scored his 59th goal with a free kick in the sixth minute at Yongin Mireu Stadium, located about 40 kilometers south of Seoul.
According to Yonhap News Agency, Son's goal allowed him to surpass the previous record held by former striker Cha Bum-kun. Son had tied with Cha after scoring against Uruguay last Monday and reached the new record in just two subsequent matches. With 151 appearances, Son is also the most-capped male player for South Korea.
During the match, Son attempted two more free kicks, with one in the 48th minute forcing a challenging save by Uzbekistan's goalkeeper, Abduvohid Nematov. Son was substituted in the 71st minute, and South Korea eventually won the match 2-0.
Reflecting on his achievement, Son expressed his gratitude and emotion, acknowledging the support of his teammates, coaches, and fans. He emphasized that his journey with the national team has been about more than just scoring goals. Son also highlighted his satisfaction with the team's performance in securing a clean-sheet victory.
Son debuted internationally on December 30, 2010, against Syria, and scored his first international goal against India on January 18, 2011, in the Asian Football Confederation Asian Cup. His international career includes participation in the 2014, 2018, 2022, and 2026 FIFA World Cups, as well as the 2011, 2015, 2019, and 2023 Asian Cups.
On the women's national team, Ji So-yun holds the record with 76 goals in 182 appearances.