Lee Jae-sung

Lee Jae-sung is a South Korean professional footballer who plays as an attacking midfielder or winger for Bundesliga club Mainz 05 and the South Korea national team. Known for his vision, passing range, and relentless work rate, he has carved out a reputation as one of the most dependable playmakers in Asian football.

With over 70 international caps, Lee has represented his country at three FIFA World Cups, including the 2018, 2022, and 2026 tournaments. At club level, he made his name in the K League with Jeonbuk Hyundai Motors before moving to Germany, where he has become a steady presence in the Bundesliga. [edit]

Lee Jae-sung was born on August 10, 1992, in Ulsan, a major industrial port city in southeastern South Korea. Growing up in a city known for its shipbuilding and heavy industry, he found his passion for football early, honing his skills on local pitches. Though details of his childhood are scarce, his talent was evident from a young age, and he rose through the ranks of the Korean domestic system.

His professional breakthrough came in the K League, where he joined Jeonbuk Hyundai Motors, one of the country's most successful clubs. At Jeonbuk, Lee developed into a creative force, showcasing his ability to dictate play from midfield. His performances in the K League earned him recognition as one of the league's premier attacking midfielders, and he became a fan favorite for his work ethic and technical ability.

By 2018, Lee's consistent displays had caught the attention of European clubs, and he made the leap to the Bundesliga, signing with Holstein Kiel before moving to Mainz 05. His journey from Ulsan to the top flight of German football is a testament to his dedication and growth as a player. [edit]

Lee Jae-sung's move to Europe in 2018 marked the beginning of a new chapter. After joining Holstein Kiel in the 2. Bundesliga, he quickly adapted to German football, and his performances earned him a transfer to Mainz 05. At Mainz, Lee established himself as a regular starter, known for his ability to link play and create scoring opportunities.

On the international stage, Lee has been a mainstay for South Korea. He was named in the squad for the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia, his first taste of football's biggest tournament. He returned for the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, and again in 2026, when the tournament was held across North America.

The 2026 World Cup, however, ended in disappointment for Lee and his teammates. South Korea were eliminated in the group stage, a result Lee described as an 'unimaginable ending.' He publicly apologized to fans for the team's performance. The tournament was also marred by controversy, as Lee and captain Son Heung-min were benched for a match against South Africa amid an interview boycott row, a decision that sparked a parliamentary inquiry in South Korea.

Despite the setback, Lee remains a key figure at Mainz, contributing to the team's Bundesliga campaign in the 2025–26 season, including a substitute appearance in a 2–0 win over Hoffenheim in May 2026. [edit]

Lee Jae-sung is seen as a reliable, hard-working playmaker who earned his place in European football through consistent performances rather than flashy headlines. His public image is that of a disciplined professional who expresses gratitude toward supporters. On Instagram, he often thanks fans for their unwavering support, posting messages that emphasize his appreciation for those who 'keep that place with a consistent heart.' As a 'Jeonbuk Legend,' he maintains deep ties to his former club and its fanbase. His public statements tend toward humility and accountability, as seen in his apology after the 2026 World Cup exit. [edit]

Lee Jae-sung commands a steady, dedicated following among supporters of South Korean football and the German club Mainz 05, though his audience operates without a singular, formally named identity or the structured mythology typical of entertainment idols. His fanbase engages through standard athletic channels, including social media appreciation and match attendance, rather than organized campaigns or ritualized events. While he remains a respected figure for his longevity and key role in major tournaments, his public profile is defined by professional consistency rather than viral celebrity status. This measured recognition places him outside the scope of global elite rankings at this time. iFANN's Global Fame Engine has evaluated his current standing and determined that Lee Jae-sung does not currently hold a placement within the published Global Top 1,000 or any Top-100 scope list. Consequently, no specific ordinal rank or numerical score can be assigned to his fame level relative to the broader population. The absence of a formal ranking reflects a status where significant regional respect exists without crossing the threshold into worldwide top-tier visibility metrics.[edit]

Lee Jae-sung is left-footed, a trait that distinguishes him as an attacking midfielder. He wears shirt number 7 at Mainz 05, a number often associated with creative playmakers. His Instagram handle, @jaesung17, suggests he previously wore number 17, possibly at an earlier club. In EA Sports FC 26, he is rated as a Center Attacking Midfielder for Mainz. He is represented by Unique Sports Group. His Bundesliga.com profile lists him at 33 years old, 180 cm, and 70 kg for the 2025–26 season. Beyond these facts, his career narrative includes a notable return to his former club Jeonbuk Hyundai Motors in July 2026, reinforcing his legend status there after leading them to K League and AFC Champions League victories. Following South Korea's exit from the 2026 World Cup, he publicly described the result as an "unimaginable ending," a statement that became a defining moment for his national team legacy in that cycle. Additionally, a significant chapter in his recent history involves his exclusion from the starting lineup alongside Son Heung-min due to an interview boycott row reported in July 2026, marking a high-profile conflict regarding media obligations during his international duty.[edit]

Lee Jae-sung keeps his family life private, and no public information is available about his parents, siblings, or any children. His focus remains on his football career, and he rarely shares personal details with the media. He has not publicly mentioned any pets or family stories. [edit]

Lee Jae-sung has been closely associated with Son Heung-min, his South Korea teammate and captain, with whom he was benched during the 2026 World Cup controversy. He also has ties to former national team coach Hong Myung-bo, who testified in the subsequent parliamentary hearing. At club level, his connection with Jeonbuk Hyundai Motors remains strong, as he is celebrated as a legend there. [edit]

Lee Jae-sung has kept his personal life out of the public eye, and no confirmed romantic relationships have been reported. He has not been linked to any partners in the media, and his Instagram presence focuses on football and gratitude toward fans rather than personal matters. As of 2026, he appears to be single, though he has not publicly addressed his relationship status. [edit]

iFANN currently estimates Lee Jae-sung's net worth at $5 Million for 2026. His primary income stream originates from his contract with Mainz 05 in the Bundesliga, where he commands a competitive salary commensurate with his experience. As a regular fixture for the South Korea national team, he also accrues appearance fees and bonuses related to international duty. Furthermore, Lee benefits from various endorsement deals, although specific financial figures remain undisclosed to the public. Over the years, his earnings have grown steadily, supported by his longevity in top-flight football and his continued role as a key player for both his club and country.[edit]