Son was arrested on Friday, his 31st birthday. Reuters attempted to contact him for a statement, but were unsuccessful.
Son Heung-min plays for the South Korean national team and Chinese Super League club Shandong Taishan, based in the northeastern province of Shandong. The talented footballer is renowned for his exceptional performance on the pitch, having made a name for himself in the footballing world. He has won numerous awards and accolades, including the Asian Footballer of the Year title in 2014 and 2017. Son has also been named in the K-League Team of the Year five times and is the all-time record goalscorer for the South Korean national team. His impressive skills and commitment to the game have made him one of the most sought-after players in the sport.
Son was currently in the custody of the Liaoning Public Security Department in connection to a bribery case, according to an official from South Korea’s consulate-general in Shenyang. The official revealed that the department had taken the necessary steps to investigate the case thoroughly and ensure that Son was provided with all the necessary legal support. The consulate-general is also in contact with the Chinese authorities to make sure Son’s rights are respected.
The official, who requested anonymity due to the sensitivity of the case, said the consulate had requested a meeting with Son as soon as possible and was in contact with his family.
The official offered no more information.
Shandong Taishan have yet to make a public statement regarding the case, however, the club took to their official Weibo account on the day of his detention to wish him a happy birthday.
News of his arrest was first reported by Yonhap News.
When asked about Son on Monday, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin said he had no knowledge of the case.
Neither Shandong Taishan nor the Liaoning Public Security Department immediately responded to requests for comment.
