Lee Ho (footballer, born 1986)
Born January 6, 1986 in Gimpo, Gyeonggi-do, South Korea • Next birthday: January 6, 2026
January 6, 1986
Gimpo, Gyeonggi-do, South Korea0
0 likesJanuary 6, 2026
65 days out5
Total visitsFew names resonate in the annals of South Korea's football history like Lee Ho - a determined association football player whose story defied convention and adversity. Born on 1986-01-06 in Gimpo, South Korea, Lee emerged from the modest football grounds of Anyang Technical High School and honed his craft at Kyung Hee University, where he claimed the Korea University Football League MVP in 2008. (en.wikipedia.org)
Beyond his early collegiate success, his professional journey embodied struggle rather than glamour. Signed in late 2008 as one of sixteen priority members by Gangwon FC, he failed to make a league appearance in 2009, then transferred to Daejeon Citizen in 2010 where he accumulated 58 league appearances and one goal between 2010 and 2014. (en.wikipedia.org)
A key aspect of his career was his military-service period: between 2013-14 he played for Ansan Police (the police/military club) adding 28 appearances and two goals. (en.wikipedia.org) Years later, seeking fresh ground, he moved in 2015 to Thailand's Port FC and added 24 caps and two goals before winding down his playing days. (en.wikipedia.org)
Throughout his professional cycle he wrestled with the entrenched paradigm that only the flashy, high-scoring stars deserve acclaim; instead he quietly built resilience and consistency in defence, establishing a lineage of players who prize gritty reliability over spotlight. The path Lee Ho forged continues to illuminate the possibilities of bold, original thinking, proving that even under-recognized players can transform their field through persistence and quiet reinvention.
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Career & Achievements
- 2018 U-League MVP (Kyung Hee University) (2008)
- Signed as priority member by Gangwon FC (2008)
- League appearances for Daejeon Citizen (2010-2014)
- Militarily-affiliated club service for Ansan Police (2013-2014)
- Played abroad for Port FC in Thai Premier League (2015)
Personal Details
Latest News
Xinhua
South Korea registers second straight win at EAFF E-1, Lee Ho-jae shines
On 2025-07-11, South Korea achieved a 2-0 victory over Hong Kong in the EAFF E-1 Football Championship, with Lee Ho‑jae notably contributing to the win. The result marked their second successive victory in the tournament held in Gyeonggi Province. Although this news item does not directly reference Lee Ho (born 1986), it places the broader South Korean football context in which his name may occasionally appear.
Football-Asian.com
Bundesliga-2 interest grows in Lee Ho-jae after first Korea call-up
On 2025-06-23, news surfaced that Lee Ho-jae had drawn transfer interest from a Bundesliga 2 club following his maiden call-up to the senior South Korea team. The article highlights how his emerging profile in 2025 could mirror pathways of other Korean players venturing into Europe.
K League United
Players improve out of sight year-on-year! - Lee Jung-hyo on Korean football growth
On 2025-09-11, an article featured Lee Jung‑hyo asserting that Korean league players have developed rapidly. While Lee Ho himself is not mentioned by name, the piece frames the current environment of South Korean players striving for higher levels, a milieu that Lee Ho's career would belong to.
Korea JoongAng Daily
Taeguk Warriors fall short in EAFF, selection questions surface for World Cup cycle
On 2025-07-16, after the South Korean men's national team ended the EAFF E-1 campaign with a loss, the article explored roster and selection issues ahead of the 2026 World Cup cycle. Although Lee Ho is not specifically cited, the article touches on defensive positions and squad depth - areas relevant to his former role.
Korea JoongAng Daily
'I want to surpass my father': Sons of Korean football greats at East Asian Cup
On 2025-07-02, an interview piece centred on rising footballers such as Lee Ho-jae and Lee Tae-seok discussed legacy and generational pressure. While the focus remains youth players, it indirectly updates the Korean football ecosystem in which seasoned players like Lee Ho once operated.
FAQ
What makes Lee Ho a notable South Korean footballer?
Lee Ho is known for his steady defensive performances and adaptability across domestic and international leagues. His tenure with Daejeon Citizen and Port FC in Thailand highlighted his tactical discipline and leadership. He represents the perseverance typical of Korean footballers who rose through adversity to professional prominence.
Where did Lee Ho begin his football career?
He began at Anyang Technical High School and continued at Kyung Hee University, where he earned the 2008 U-League MVP title. His strong university record paved the way for his signing with Gangwon FC as a priority member later that year.
Which clubs did Lee Ho play for professionally?
Lee Ho's career included Gangwon FC, Daejeon Citizen, Ansan Police (during his military service), and Port FC in Thailand. Each club marked a different stage in his evolution as a disciplined, defensive-minded player.
What was Lee Ho's playing style and position?
Lee Ho primarily played as a defender and occasionally as a defensive midfielder. He was known for his composure under pressure, strategic tackling, and ability to anchor the back line in challenging match situations.
Did Lee Ho achieve recognition during his college years?
Yes, his time at Kyung Hee University was marked by his U-League MVP award in 2008. This accolade recognized his leadership and consistency, establishing him as one of Korea's most promising university-level players of the time.
What challenges did Lee Ho face during his professional career?
He struggled with limited opportunities at Gangwon FC and the demanding transition to professional football. However, his move to Daejeon Citizen allowed him to regain form and consistency, demonstrating resilience against setbacks.
How did Lee Ho's military service impact his career?
During his mandatory service, he joined Ansan Police FC, where he continued competing professionally. This period honed his discipline and mental endurance, which later contributed to his success in Thailand's Port FC.
What international experience does Lee Ho have?
In 2015, he joined Port FC in the Thai Premier League. His time abroad tested his adaptability and exposed him to a new football culture, enriching his tactical awareness and expanding his international profile.
What legacy does Lee Ho leave in South Korean football?
Lee Ho symbolizes the enduring value of persistence and team-first mentality. His journey, though less glamorous than star forwards, resonates with aspiring defenders who value grit and professionalism over fame.
What lessons can young athletes learn from Lee Ho's career?
Lee Ho's story teaches that success in sports is not always about fame or statistics. Commitment, humility, and perseverance can shape a respected legacy, even in positions often overlooked by media spotlight.
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