Son Heung-min is set to join Los Angeles FC (LAFC), bringing with him a wealth of experience and global appeal to the city. The 33-year-old South Korean forward has signed on an MLS-record transfer fee, filling an attacking void in Los Angeles that has been exacerbated by Denis Bouanga’s heavy load.
Son’s arrival will not only benefit LAFC but also the local Korean community, many of whom have long admired him as a national hero. According to Josh Lee, leader of the LAFC supporters group TSG, Son’s move is “like our wildest dream” for Koreans and Korean-Americans in Southern California. He is expected to become one of the most popular players in the league, especially among fans in Koreatown.
Son has already made a significant impact on his previous clubs, including Tottenham Hotspur, where he amassed 173 goals and 94 assists over nearly 10 seasons. Despite scoring only two Premier League goals last season, Son remains a prolific goal-scorer, with 22 goals in all competitions last year. His work ethic and ability to thrive in different positions make him an ideal fit for LAFC.
Son’s arrival is also expected to have a broader impact on the community, drawing in new fans from Korean-American families who may not have previously attended LAFC games. As Lee noted, “You’re gonna have generations of families come out to the stadium, maybe for the first time, because they know he’s an important person to see.”
With Son joining the team, LAFC is poised to become a more competitive force in MLS and attract new fans from diverse backgrounds. The signing ticks all the boxes, making it a rare success story in the league.
Source: https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6530329/2025/08/06/son-heung-min-lafc-tottenham-mls-transfer-south-korea