Newcastle Players Arrive to Enthusiastic Welcome from Korean Fans… Park Seung-soo Smiling with the Taegukgi
Newcastle United, a prestigious club in the English Premier League (EPL), arrived at Incheon International Airport on the afternoon of the 28th, receiving a warm welcome from South Korean football fans.
This visit is particularly meaningful as it marks Newcastle's first trip to South Korea since its establishment in 1892.
Led by coach Eddie Howe, the squad featured several top EPL players, including Kieran Trippier, Joelinton, Bruno Guimarães, and Sandro Tonali, who were met with loud applause and cheers from the Korean fans as they made their way through the arrivals hall.
The Newcastle players responded to the fans' welcome by holding the Taegukgi for a commemorative photo and engaging in spontaneous fan service, signing autographs and taking pictures.
Spontaneous Fan Service
Notably, Park Seung-soo (18), referred to as "Korea's special prospect" while wearing a recent Newcastle jersey, caught the attention of many at the arrivals hall.
After confirming his transfer to Newcastle on the 24th, Park waved to the Korean fans with a beaming smile while proudly holding the Taegukgi.
Park Seung-soo: From Suwon Samsung Prospect to the Future of Newcastle in the EPL
Park Seung-soo is regarded as the top prospect during his time with his former team, Suwon Samsung. At just 16 years old in 2023, he signed a semi-professional contract with the club and made 14 appearances in the K League 2 last year, recording 1 goal and 2 assists.
This year, he participated in 10 games and has been praised for his sharp wing plays, solidifying his role as a key attacking player for Suwon.
Park’s potential has been recognized from an early age.
He won the Star Award in the football category at the 2024 Futures Star Awards, which was organized by Star News and supported by the Korea Baseball Softball Association, the Korean Basketball Association, Players, Gold Ball Park, and Sports Toto.
Yang Min-hyuk, who is currently active at Tottenham in England, also received the Star Award.
Newcastle Scheduled for Two Pre-Season Matches in Korea
While in South Korea, Newcastle is set to play two pre-season friendly matches.
On the 30th, they will face Team K League, made up of K League All-Stars, at Suwon World Cup Stadium. On August 3rd, they will match up against Tottenham Hotspur, featuring Son Heung-min, at Seoul World Cup Stadium.
Finishing 5th in the EPL for the 2024-2025 season, Newcastle also achieved the remarkable feat of lifting a trophy for the first time in 70 years by winning the League Cup (Carabao Cup).
As such, their match against Tottenham, the Europa League champions, is garnering considerable attention.
Image Source: News1
