Son Heung-min is about to get his Hollywood moment.
After getting off to a hot start in his Major League Soccer career with a goal, assist and a drawn penalty in his first three games, the South Korean superstar will finally debut in front of LAFC’s home support on Sunday against the Western Conference-leading San Diego FC.
The Black and Gold have lost just twice in their last 18 matches, and claimed four of a possible seven points since Son joined for an MLS record transfer fee of over $26 million from Tottenham Hotspur.
It’s been a whirlwind for Son and LAFC, as the club has gone from a popular side to one of the most followed teams in the world outside of Europe.
“It’s been excellent. I enjoyed it, and even the long travel, I had a time to speak to the players, and I think that socializing is so important to me,” Son said ahead of his BMO Stadium debut. “Obviously, first home game after a month, it felt like a year, so I can't wait. The fans will be really, really good, and the stadium will be packed. I can’t wait to be on the pitch again.”
Since signing, Son has made himself extremely available to the press, unlike many other stars who have come to MLS after spending their prime years in Europe and has already elevated the club’s brand to a level not seen since Mexican international Carlos Vela signed in 2017.
The LAFC YouTube channel has gained 70% more subscribers, according to while other platforms have also seen significant boosts. From a league perspective, it has opened up an entirely new market, with MLS Season Pass on Apple TV ads being posted across South Korea.
Merchandising hasn’t been left aside either, with Son’s jersey ranking as the most sold across North America in August.
It’s all been shocking to the 33-year-old as well. Despite his popularity, stardom and footballing skills, he never expected the buzz of soccer in LA to be at the level it is.
