Lee Jin-ho

Lee Jin-ho (born 3 September 1984) is a South Korean former professional footballer who played as a forward.

Early and personal life Lee attended Okdong Elementary School, Hakseong Middle School, Hakseong High School, and graduated from Ulsan College. He was known for his passionate displays on the pitch and affection for his teams, earning him the nickname "Passionate Striker". Being born in Ulsan and known for his strong pride and attachment to the Ulsan-based professional club, he was also nicknamed "Son of Ulsan" by supporters of Ulsan HD FC.

Club career

Early career and Chievo Verona After dropping out of Hakseong High School, Lee did not go to university but instead joined the youth team of Brazilian club Cruzeiro in 2000. In 2002, he passed a trial with Italian club Chievo Verona and played for their reserve team, receiving positive reviews, but later returned to South Korea.

Ulsan Hyundai He made his professional debut in 2003 for his hometown club Ulsan Hyundai, but was limited to 8 appearances over two years, including the Hauzen Cup. He began to feature more regularly in 2005, playing 19 league games. On 20 November 2005, he scored the winning goal in a K League playoff match against Seongnam Ilhwa Chunma, helping Ulsan Hyundai reach the playoff final. He was originally scheduled to enlist for military service with Sangmu the next day (21 November), but received a two-month discharge order due to a fractured collarbone. This sparked debate over his availability for the championship final, and he ultimately came on as a substitute in the second leg of the final, contributing to Ulsan Hyundai's K League championship win in 2005.

Military service at Gwangju Sangmu He enlisted in 2006, joining Gwangju Sangmu, but injuries limited him to 9 league appearances that year. He played 20 league games in 2007 and was discharged in 2008, returning to Ulsan Hyundai.

Loan to Pohang Steelers In June 2010, he was loaned to Pohang Steelers in a six-month swap deal involving Pohang's Noh Byung-joon. He returned to Ulsan Hyundai after the loan concluded at the end of 2010.

Daegu FC In January 2012, Lee was traded to Daegu FC as part of the deal that saw Lee Geun-ho, whose rights were owned by Daegu, transfer from Gamba Osaka to Ulsan Hyundai.

Loan to Jeju United After the start of the 2013 season, despite good form, he struggled to record attacking points. On 3 July 2013, he was loaned to Jeju United in a six-month swap deal involving Jeju's Choi Won-kwon. He had a successful loan spell, scoring 3 goals and providing 3 assists in 17 appearances.

Gwangju FC He transferred to Gwangju FC in early 2014.

Later career He later had short spells with Thai club Air Force Central and Korean K3 League side Cheonan City before retiring.

International career Lee represented the South Korea U17 national team in 2000.

Style of play Lee was known for his sturdy 1.84 m physique, strength comparable to foreign players, and strong focus in front of goal. Despite his build, his flexibility allowed for quick and smooth play, which was considered one of his key strengths.

Club career statistics

Honours

Club Ulsan Hyundai Ulsan Hyundai K League 1 (1): 2005 K League 1 Runner-up (2): 2003, 2011 Korean League Cup (1): 2011 Korean League Cup Runner-up (1): 2005