Spanish Media: "Lee Kang-in Should Receive Military Service Exemption with a Gold Medal Like Son Heung-min"

Lee Kang-in (left) and Son Heung-min (right) / Photo by Yonhap News

[Asia Economy Intern Reporter Kim Seul-gi] The Spanish sports newspaper 'Marca' reported that "just as Son Heung-min did, Lee Kang-in still has enough time to receive military service exemption."

On the 5th (Korean time), 'Marca' stated, "Lee Kang-in is only 19 years old and has a bright future ahead, so he can receive military service exemption through winning the Olympics or Asian Games."

The outlet explained, "Having to fulfill military service by 2029 could significantly impact Lee Kang-in's career. At just 19, he still has plenty of time to receive military exemption like Son Heung-min did," adding, "Military service will remain on Lee Kang-in's mind for the next nine years. It could be unfavorable if he has to leave the field for a year and a half before turning 28."

Earlier, Lee Kang-in solidified his position by participating in 11 matches in this season's Spanish La Liga and 5 matches in the UEFA Champions League. At the 2019 FIFA U-20 World Cup held in Poland last year, Lee Kang-in earned the honor of Best Player at the age of 18, the first in 14 years.

Meanwhile, Son Heung-min will enlist at the Marine Corps 9th Brigade training center in Jeju Island on the 20th. Son Heung-min received military service exemption benefits due to winning the gold medal at the 2018 Jakarta-Palembang Asian Games.

With this benefit, Son Heung-min will complete his national defense duty by undergoing three weeks of basic military training.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.