Han Kwang-song’s journey in football has indeed been tumultuous and unique. After moving to Italy and spending time at Perugia’s academy, Han eventually signed for Cagliari. His talent caught the attention of major clubs, including Liverpool, but a move there did not materialize, partly because Han was unfamiliar with Liverpool’s legend Steven Gerrard.
In 2019, Juventus signed Han on a loan deal, making him the first Asian player to be called up for the team. However, his time at Juventus was short-lived as he was later sold to Al-Duhail in Qatar. His career faced a significant setback when UN sanctions against North Korea led to the termination of his contract with Al-Duhail, effectively halting his professional career.
After a period of absence from the public eye, Han Kwang-song has recently re-emerged, playing for North Korea in a World Cup qualifier against Syria on November 16, 2023. This marks a significant return for the player who once showed promise in Europe’s top leagues. Despite the challenges and interruptions in his career, Han’s resilience and talent have seen him return to the international stage, continuing his football journey.
“The scout said: do you know Steven Gerrard?,” Mauro Costorella of Perugia’s academy told First Time Finish.
Han shook his head, quite sheepishly. Costorella continued: “The scout was very surprised, he said: ‘How is it possible you don’t know Steven Gerrard?’ The scout turned around and said it was the first time he showed a picture of Gerrard to someone and they did not instantly go ‘wow’.
Han Kwang-song’s football career has been a rollercoaster of highs and lows, marked by both his promising talent and the geopolitical tensions that have influenced his journey. His early success at Cagliari and subsequent move to Juventus showcased his potential, but his career took an unexpected turn due to the UN sanctions against North Korea.
After his transfer to Al-Duhail in Qatar, Han found success and seemed to have found a place to continue his development. However, the UN’s decision to enforce sanctions meant that his contract was terminated, and he faced deportation. The closure of North Korea’s borders during the COVID-19 pandemic added another layer of complexity, leading to a period where Han’s whereabouts were uncertain.
Despite these challenges, Han made a notable return to international football, scoring in a World Cup qualifier for North Korea against Myanmar. At 25 years old, without a club and with his future in professional football uncertain, Han’s next steps remain to be seen. His situation highlights the intersection of sports and politics and how external factors can significantly impact an athlete’s career.