In Korea, I’m not a superstar says Bundesliga star Jae-Sung Lee

The midfielder is enjoying a decent season in the German top flight

The FSV Mainz 05 and South Korea star Jae-Sung Lee has recorded seven goals and three assists in 27 Bundesliga appearances this season. Learn about his Bundesliga season, Mainz season, goals for the remaining season and a few quick-fire questions about his life and career.

Mainz are currently 1 point off a European place, how would you describe Mainz’s form so far in 2023?

“We took it game by game to get back on track, and during the winter break we ironed out the things we did wrong in the first half of the season. The players were ready to give their all and our team spirit improved. We’ve been a lot stronger defensively.”

Last season you beat Bayern at home 3-1, how do you feel about this season’s upcoming fixture?

“We beat Bayern at home last season. Regardless of whom we play against, we’re always strong at home.”

Do you think that Mainz has what it takes to secure a place in one of Europe’s top competitions?

“Given where we are at the moment, we can certainly dream of playing in Europe, and we players know that. We have eight games to go and if we keep doing what we’re doing, then it’s possible.”

What has been your best moment to date in the Bundesliga?

“The game that sticks in my memory the most was the game against Augsburg. It was the first game where I scored two goals, and I really enjoyed the game, and the win was very important too. It was a lot of fun and I was happy I could help the team.”

Can you describe both goals for us vs Augsburg?

“For the first goal I wanted Ajorque to put the ball in, but luckily it fell to me, and I thought, how lucky! For the second goal, I just kept my eyes on the ball and the coach had told us at halftime that we needed another goal, so I was happy to do that. After the game, we could celebrate with the fans, and there were Korean fans there too.”

How did it make you feel to see Korean fans in the crowd at Mainz?

“That really touches me, and the fact I can see Korean flags in the stadium means that I’m doing something for my country, and that makes me very proud. The fact that fans come from Korea or other German cities to see me play is really special. And to make them happy, I give my all in every second of the game.”

South Korea has had some global footballing stars such as Heung-min Son and Park Ji-sung. Do you feel like the next South Korean footballing hero?

“In Korea, I’m not a superstar, I’m very normal, like a student! There’s only real commotion around Son. I take public transport like any other normal person.”

What were your thoughts about the atmosphere at carnival?

“It was fantastic and I’m unbelievably happy and thankful for the amount of support and praise I get as a footballer. I especially love it when the fans chant ‘Lee, Lee, Lee’ when I get the ball. It makes me give even more, so I can give them even more to cheer about.”

Is there an equivalent to carnival in Korea?

“There’s nothing similar to carnival in Korea. There was a parade in Jeonbuk after the World Cup, but the kind of carnival they have here is very new to us. When I came to Mainz, everyone was telling me about it. Last year it was unfortunately cancelled due to COVID, but this time I was able to experience it fully and it was one of the best experiences I’ve ever had outside of football.”

Can you tell us about the trophies you won whilst playing in Korea?

“At the time, those trophies were very important, and they made me very proud, but that’s in the past now. They were nice experiences because we worked hard for them and I’m still proud. But now I don’t place too much importance on them because my focus is all on the present and the future.”

Can you describe your relationship with your brother?

“My brother is my family, and we speak on the phone every day. I love him and as a footballer, I have a lot of respect for him. I’ve learned a lot from him and he’s supported me a lot.”

Who are the most important people in your life?

“First of all, a lot of my teammates whom I have played with, and the coach who has taught me a lot. But family comes first. To come to Germany and play here was a big challenge for me, but the support of my family was important and very helpful for me to achieve everything I have done. On top of that, the fans were always an important part of my journey, thanks to their support I’ve always been able to improve.”

What was your toughest moment to date in the Bundesliga?

“I was always very sad when I got injured. When I came to Mainz I was injured and I couldn’t help the team, that hurt me a lot.”

What has been the best moment of your career so far?

“There are a lot of nice moments, but the one I think of is my first game in Germany. It was Kiel against Hamburg, an away game for us, and I had always dreamed of playing in Europe. There were 60,000 people in the stadium and it’s a very intense memory.”

What would you do if you weren’t a footballer?

“I probably would have been a very normal worker in a company. I was born and raised in Ulsan and life as a hard worker would have been waiting for me.”

Do you have any hobbies outside of football?

“I go to church and pray, and I spend a lot of time with the people there. I like to go out to eat and read books.”

What is the one special thing about Mainz?

“The team spirit.”

What is your favourite position to play?

“In midfield.”

Where is your favourite place at home?

“My sofa.”

What is your favourite thing to do other than scoring goals?

“Assisting goals.”

Do you have a favourite sport outside of football?

“Basketball.”

What player in the Bundesliga would you like to meet most?

“Thomas Müller, because I have a lot of respect for him. We play in the same position and he’s always so positive, so I’d like to talk with him and exchange shirts.”