 |
An Yong-hakNorth Korean footballer, midfielder
Date of Birth: 25.10.1978
Country:  North Korea |
Content:
- Early Life and Career
- Rise in Japan and Transfer to South Korea
- Success with Suwon Samsung Bluewings
- Return to Japan
- International Career
- Personal Life
Early Life and Career
An Yong-hak, a skilled North Korean footballer, began his career at a young age, playing for various Korean educational institutions in Japan. In 2002, he made his professional debut with Albirex Niigata in the J2 League. He had an impressive season with 41 appearances and 5 goals.
Rise in Japan and Transfer to South Korea
In 2003, An helped Albirex Niigata win the J2 League, earning promotion to the J1 League. He continued to perform well in the top flight, scoring 3 goals in 26 games in the 2004 season. He also represented Albirex Niigata in the Emperor's Cup and J.League Cup.
In 2005, An transferred to Nagoya Grampus, where he played for one season. In 2006, he moved to South Korea and joined Busan I'Park in the K-League. He scored 2 goals in his first season and made significant contributions to the team's cup campaigns.
Success with Suwon Samsung Bluewings
In 2008, An joined Suwon Samsung Bluewings. That season, he played a crucial role in the team's triumph, winning the K-League title and the K-League Cup. He scored 2 goals in the league campaign and contributed in cup competitions as well.
In 2009, An helped Suwon Samsung Bluewings secure the Korean FA Cup, his second national title.
Return to Japan
In 2010, An returned to Japan and signed with Omiya Ardija. He made his debut in March in a match against Cerezo Osaka.
International Career
An made his debut for the North Korean national team in 2002. He played a key role in World Cup qualifying campaigns and scored 2 goals in the 2004 qualifier against Thailand. He was selected for the squad that participated in the 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa and played in all three group-stage matches.
Personal Life
An's ancestors moved to Japan during the Japanese Empire's occupation of Korea. He was born and raised in Japan but later obtained a North Korean passport.
