1. Overview
Park In-hyeok (박인혁Park In-hyeokKorean, born December 29, 1995) is a South Korean professional footballer who plays as a forward. His career has seen him play for several clubs in Europe, including TSG 1899 Hoffenheim in Germany, and various clubs in South Korea, notably Daejeon Citizen and currently Jeonnam Dragons. Park's journey highlights the development of South Korean football talent on the international stage and his contributions to national youth teams.
2. Early Life and Background
Park In-hyeok's formative years in football began in his native South Korea, leading him to pursue professional opportunities both domestically and abroad.
2.1. Childhood and Education
Born in the capital city of Seoul, Park In-hyeok began his football journey at Kyung Hee University in 2013, playing for the university's football team as a striker. This period laid the groundwork for his professional aspirations, as he developed his skills and understanding of the game. He continued his studies and played for the university team until 2015.
2.2. Early Career and Move to Europe
After two years with Kyung Hee University, Park made a significant decision to leave university in 2015 to pursue a professional career. He signed with Bundesliga side TSG 1899 Hoffenheim in Germany, marking his first move to a European club and a crucial step in his professional football journey.
3. Major Activities and Achievements
Park In-hyeok's professional career has spanned multiple leagues and countries, showcasing his development as a forward through various club and international experiences.
3.1. Club Career
Park In-hyeok's club career began in South Korea before he moved to Europe, where he gained experience across German, Slovenian, and Serbian leagues, eventually returning to the K League in his home country.
3.1.1. Kyung Hee University
From 2013 to 2015, Park In-hyeok played as a striker for the Kyung Hee University football team. This experience served as his initial platform in competitive football, honing his abilities before he transitioned into professional ranks.
3.1.2. TSG 1899 Hoffenheim
In 2015, Park In-hyeok joined TSG 1899 Hoffenheim, a club competing in the prestigious German Bundesliga. While he was part of the Hoffenheim setup, his time there primarily involved development and loan spells to gain match experience.
3.1.3. Daejeon Citizen
Park In-hyeok returned to South Korea ahead of the 2018 season, joining Daejeon Citizen. He made his K League debut on March 11, 2018, playing as a lone striker in a match against Ansan Greeners FC. He scored his first K League goal on April 29, 2018, in a match against Suwon FC. During the 2018 season, Park recorded 7 goals and 3 assists in 33 appearances, establishing himself as the top domestic goal scorer for Daejeon Citizen that year.
3.1.4. Jeonnam Dragons
Prior to the 2022 season, Park In-hyeok transferred to K League 2 club Jeonnam Dragons, where he continues his professional career as a forward.
3.2. International Career
Park In-hyeok has represented South Korea at the youth level, participating in significant international tournaments.
3.2.1. South Korea U-23 Team
While playing for FK Vojvodina, Park In-hyeok was called up to the South Korean national U23 team. He participated in the 2018 AFC U-23 Championship. Notably, in June 2016, during a U-23 four-nation friendly tournament held in South Korea, he scored a dramatic equalizer in the 93rd minute against Honduras, marking his debut goal for the U-23 national team.
4. Personal Life
Details regarding Park In-hyeok's personal life, beyond his professional football career, are not widely publicized.