He was faster than Yang Min-hyuk! 16-year-old Choi Jae-hyeok sets new record as Gangwon FC's youngest debutant... "Hope to inspire my juniors"

*This content was translated by AI.

Promising young player Choi Jae-hyeok of professional soccer club Gangwon FC has rewritten the club's record for the youngest-ever appearance.

On the 17th, Choi started and played the full match in the away game against Kitchee SC (Hong Kong) in Group H, Matchday 1 of the 2026–2027 AFC Champions League Two (ACL2), held at Mong Kok Stadium in Hong Kong.

At just 16 years, 10 months, and 13 days old, Choi stepped onto the professional stage and became Gangwon FC's youngest player to ever appear in a match.

The previous record was held by Kim Hyung-jin at 17 years, 7 months, and 18 days. Yang Min-hyuk made his debut at 17 years, 10 months, and 15 days. Choi Jae-hyeok is the first player from Gangwon to appear in a professional match at age 16.

He also showed his potential in his debut match. Positioned on the right flank, Choi played the full 90 minutes, displaying stable defensive performance and contributing to the team's scoreless result. Gangwon secured one point in their away trip to Hong Kong.

After the match, Choi expressed through the club: "I am truly grateful to the coach who gave me this opportunity. I believe this match will be a great help for my future development." He added, "While I'm happy that we didn't concede a goal in my debut, I feel regretful about parts of my performance not meeting my usual standards."

He continued, "My goal is to play as many matches as possible this year to receive as many opportunities as I can, so that next season I can show even better performances. I want to become a player who contributes to the team moving forward."

He also did not forget to thank his fans. Choi said, "I am grateful that fans traveled from far away to support us. I apologize for not securing a victory and hope to show better performances in the future."

He especially placed significance on having risen from Gangwon's youth system all the way to the professional stage. Choi stated, "I believe I am the first player to debut professionally after passing through both the U-15 and U-18 teams under Gangwon FC. I hope this will serve as good motivation for other Gangwon youth players."

Choi Jae-hyeok, currently a second-year student at Gangneung Jeil High School, is a promising talent nurtured by Gangwon FC.

He is the first player to join the professional team after progressing through both the U-15 team (Ojin Middle School) and the U-18 team (Gangneung Jeil High School). In April, he signed a semi-professional contract at the youngest age in club history, drawing early expectations.

He has also been steadily gaining experience with the Yeon Ryeong-byeol (CEO) team. Choi has appeared in 20 matches for the U-17 national team, including the AFC U-17 Asian Cup, demonstrating his competitiveness.

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*This content was translated by AI.