SportsHeung-Min Son's father fined amid football academy scandal

Heung-Min Son's father fined amid football academy scandal

Virgil Van Dijk and Heung-min Son
Virgil Van Dijk and Heung-min Son
Images source: © Getty Images | Kaz Photography
Karol Osiński

12 October 2024 19:22

The father of Heung-min Son, the renowned Tottenham Hotspur player, has been fined for offences committed at his football academy. The player's brother is reportedly implicated in the affair as well.

In 2021, Heung-min Son invested €15 million to establish his football academy in South Korea. According to the website goal.com, one of the coaches at the academy is his father, Woong-jung. In the summer of 2024, media reports surfaced alleging that he committed offences while working with children and adolescents.

The father and brother of Heung-min Son accused of offences at the football academy

After several months of silence on the matter, the same source indicated that Woong-jung appeared in court, where he was fined €2,200. Despite the modest amount, the charges against him are serious. He is accused of striking a child with a corner flag and using vulgar language and aggression towards other young protégés.

Journalists report that Heung-min Son's father denies the allegations and has declined to comment on the situation. However, he has stated his intention to reassess his approach to upbringing. The French newspaper "L'Equipe" reports that his brother is also implicated in the matter besides the player's father. Financial penalties are said to have been imposed on two other coaches as well.

Who is Heung-min Son?

Heung-min Son is a South Korean footballer who has excelled internationally for several years. Born on 8 July 1992 in Chuncheon, he began his career at the German club Hamburger SV, where he made his professional debut. He is currently a key player for the English club Tottenham Hotspur and one of the team's leaders.

Son is renowned for his versatility on the pitch – capable of playing both as a winger and a striker. His strengths include quick dribbles, precise shots, and excellent game awareness. He is one of the most distinguished players in the history of Asian football, regularly receiving accolades for his achievements. As a representative of South Korea, Son is also the captain of the national team, with whom he has participated in numerous international tournaments, including the World Cup.

In the Premier League, Son is noted not only for his effectiveness but also for his humility and dedication, which endear him to fans across the globe. His commitment to football and determination make him an exemplary figure for young athletes, both in Korea and worldwide.