South Korean national team defender Lee Han-beom has left Denmark to join Club Brugge, a powerhouse in the Belgian Pro League.
Club Brugge announced Lee's signing on August 3 through the club's official website. The contract runs until 2029, and he will wear the number 3 jersey.
While the specific transfer fee has not been officially disclosed, local media, including Denmark's Tipsbladet, report that the total amount, including options, is around €10.5 million (approximately 17.4 billion won). The contract also includes a sell-on clause, which stipulates that Lee's former club, Midtjylland, will receive 15% of any future transfer fee.
This transfer significantly boosts Lee's market value. When he left FC Seoul for Midtjylland in August 2023, the transfer fee was €1.5 million (about 2.5 billion won). In just three years in Europe, he has increased his worth sevenfold.
Lee's journey in Europe has not been without challenges. In his first season, he made only two appearances, struggling to secure a starting position. However, he gradually increased his playing time and became a key defender for the team. Notably, in May, he scored a dramatic header in the final minutes of the Danish Cup final against Copenhagen, securing the trophy for his team.
His stable performance at the club level has also strengthened his position in the South Korean national team. Lee contributed to the team's gold medal win at the 2023 Hangzhou Asian Games and started all three group stage matches in the recently concluded 2026 FIFA World Cup in North and Central America.
Club Brugge is a traditional powerhouse in the Belgian league, having won the title 20 times, making it the second-most successful club in league history, behind Anderlecht, which has 34 titles. Last season, they also secured the league championship, earning a direct ticket to the group stage of the 2026-2027 UEFA Champions League.
With this transfer, Lee will have the opportunity to compete in the group stage of the UEFA Champions League for the first time in his career.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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