1. Overview
Kang Yoon-sung (강윤성Korean; born July 1, 1997) is a South Korean professional footballer who primarily plays as a midfielder. He stands at 6.0 ft (1.84 m) tall and is currently affiliated with Daejeon Hana Citizen in the K League 1. Throughout his career, Kang has showcased versatility, also playing as a right-back, left-back, and defensive midfielder. A product of the Daegu Technical High School youth system, he has played for several clubs including Daejeon Citizen (now Daejeon Hana Citizen) in two separate stints, Jeju United, and Gimcheon Sangmu during his military service. Kang has also represented South Korea at various age-group national team levels, notably winning the AFC U-23 Championship in 2020 with the South Korea U-23 squad.
2. Early Life and Youth Career
Kang Yoon-sung was born on July 1, 1997, in South Korea. He began his football development at Daegu Technical High School, where he quickly emerged as a prominent player. During his time there, he served as the captain and a key player for the school's football team. His leadership and skill were instrumental in guiding Daegu Technical High School to a runner-up finish in the football discipline at the 2015 National Sports Festival, drawing significant attention and recognition for his potential.
Following his notable performances in high school, Kang Yoon-sung was included in the initial domestic training list for the South Korea national under-20 football team. Upon graduating from Daegu Technical High School, he made the transition to professional football, signing with Daejeon Citizen as a free agent in January 2016.
3. Club Career
Kang Yoon-sung's professional club career began in 2016 and has seen him play for several teams in the K League.
3.1. Daejeon Citizen (Initial Stint)
Kang Yoon-sung officially joined Daejeon Citizen, then a K League Challenge (now K League 2) side, in January 2016, directly after completing his high school education. He spent his initial professional years with the club, contributing significantly to their campaigns. During this first period with Daejeon Citizen, spanning from 2016 to 2018, he made a total of 66 appearances in league matches, scoring 3 goals.
3.2. Jeju United
Following his stint with Daejeon, Kang Yoon-sung moved to Jeju United before the start of the 2019 season. He continued to be a consistent performer for Jeju United, playing for the club from 2019 to 2021. During his time at Jeju, he accumulated 67 appearances and scored 3 goals.
3.3. Gimcheon Sangmu (Military Service)
In 2022, Kang Yoon-sung temporarily left Jeju United to fulfill his mandatory military service, joining Gimcheon Sangmu, a professional football club that fields military personnel. He played for Gimcheon Sangmu on loan from 2022 to 2023, participating in the K League 1. During his service period, he featured in 37 matches.
3.4. Daejeon Hana Citizen (Return)
After completing his military service with Gimcheon Sangmu, Kang Yoon-sung returned to Daejeon Hana Citizen, the rebranded and renamed club of his original team, in 2023. He immediately rejoined the squad and has been an active player for the club since his return. As of his return in 2023, he has made 16 appearances and scored 1 goal for Daejeon Hana Citizen. He currently plays for the club in the K League 1.
4. National Team Career
Kang Yoon-sung has represented South Korea at various youth levels, demonstrating his talent and potential on the international stage.
4.1. Age-Group National Teams
Kang Yoon-sung received his first call-up to the South Korea national under-20 football team in 2016, being included in the first domestic training list for the squad. His international debut for the U-20 team was also recorded during the 2016-2017 period, where he made 1 appearance. He was notably selected for the 2016 AFC U-19 Championship squad on September 30, 2016, further solidifying his status as a promising young player.
His progression continued, leading to his selection for the South Korea national under-23 football team. He played for the U-23 squad from 2019 to 2021, earning 17 caps in total. This includes one appearance against another KFA team, highlighting his consistent involvement in national team preparations and matches at this level.
5. Playing Style and Position
Kang Yoon-sung is recognized for his versatility across defensive and midfield roles. While he is primarily classified as a midfielder, he has also frequently operated as a right-back and left-back. His tactical awareness also allows him to effectively play as a defensive midfielder. This adaptability enables him to contribute to both defense and build-up play, making him a valuable asset to his teams.
6. Honours
Kang Yoon-sung has achieved team success during his career, particularly at the international youth level.
- AFC U-23 Championship: 2020