South Korean midfielder Kang-in Lee is currently completing administrative requirements for his military service exemption in Seoul, delaying his formal arrival at Atlético Madrid following his transfer from Paris Saint-Germain on a contract running through the summer of 2031.
The Transfer Details and Administrative Delay in Seoul
Atlético Madrid officially announced the signing of Kang-in Lee on July 25, securing the 25-year-old midfielder on a five-year contract that runs until June 30, 2031. According to financial details reported by the outlet, the agreement involves a transfer fee of 3500만 유로 alongside an additional 500만 유로 in potential options. While his medical examinations were completed early, the official announcement and subsequent team travel were pushed back by more than a week due to complex contractual procedures, including fine points regarding image rights.
Rather than flying immediately to Europe, Lee has remained in South Korea to navigate the necessary paperwork. The report notes that the delay stems from administrative procedures required under the military service exemption Lee earned during the 2023 Hangzhou Asian Games. He must finalize documentation for the arts and sports personnel program and await final approval from the Military Manpower Administration to extend his overseas travel permit.
While awaiting clearance, Lee has based his training regimen at GS Champions Park, the training facility for K리그1 club FC Seoul. Working under the remote guidance of Atlético Madrid’s staff alongside a personal trainer, he aims to maintain his match fitness. On July 26, he was spotted in the stands at Seoul World Cup Stadium, observing a K리그1 round 20 match between FC Seoul and Ulsan HD, and later greeted players in the mixed zone.
Filling the No. 7 Shirt and Preseason Debut Prospects
Inheriting Griezmann’s iconic number 7 jersey, Lee is expected to slot into manager Diego Simeone’s tactical setup once he arrives in Spain.
The exact timing of his first appearance in an Atlético Madrid kit depends heavily on how quickly the Military Manpower Administration grants its final approval. 연합뉴스, if the paperwork clears swiftly, Lee could join up with the squad for their preseason fixture against Manchester United scheduled for August 1 in Sweden. Should the administrative process take longer, a more likely debut in club colors would arrive on August 9 during the Coupang Play Series match against Manchester City at Seoul World Cup Stadium.
The broader reports from local outlets outline a packed preseason schedule for Atlético Madrid before the official 2026–2027 La Liga campaign begins. Before facing Málaga in their league opener on August 20, the Spanish club is slated to meet Getafe on July 30, Manchester United on August 1, Manchester City on August 9, and Marseille on August 15.
Commercial Stature and Online Reaction Across Asia
Lee’s move to Madrid brings significant commercial expectations alongside sporting value. Media analysts highlight him as a central figure for the South Korean national team—where he has earned significant caps—and note his career progression through Valencia’s youth academy, Mallorca, and PSG, a span in which he collected 11 major trophies, including three Ligue 1 titles and two UEFA Champions League crowns, while amassing 16 goals and 16 assists across 124 official matches.
However, the transfer also stirred friction in overseas digital spaces. Additional critical online remarks touched upon symbols and political sensitivities, though mainstream commentary largely centered on his proven competitive pedigree in La Liga and European competition.
