Official Announcement Out, But Why Is He Still Here? The Reason Lee Kang-in Can't Go to Spain Yet

While various speculations surround the reason why national football team player Lee Kang-in, who has wrapped up his transfer procedures to the prestigious Spanish La Liga club Atlético Madrid, is still staying in Korea, an analysis has emerged pointing to "military service" as the cause.

The Spanish media outlet Marca reported on the 28th (Korean time) that "Lee Kang-in faces a national duty," and "he cannot leave Korea due to fulfilling obligations related to military service exemptions."

It added, "The timing of his joining the team will be determined based on the conclusion of all administrative procedures."

Lee Kang-in won a gold medal at the 2023 Hangzhou Asian Games, earning a military service exemption.

However, as he has not yet completed basic military training or initiated the military service exemption procedures, he must go through several administrative steps associated with incorporation as art and sports personnel.

He also has to wait for approval from relevant ministries to renew his overseas travel permit.

Marca reported, "Lee Kang-in must stay in Korea for the time being according to South Korean law," adding, "While fans are looking forward to seeing the 'Korean Messi' train and play under manager Simeone, when this scene will actually materialize remains uncertain."

Previously, Atlético Madrid finalized the acquisition of Lee Kang-in this summer.

Expectations for Lee are high locally, as the club assigned him the number 7 jersey—a symbol of the team's ace—and even produced a grand welcoming video.

Lee, who is currently maintaining his fitness at the FC Seoul training ground, is expected to join Atlético Madrid's schedule from Korea if these procedures are not resolved by the 30th.

However, if approval is granted within the 30 days, he will immediately depart for Spain to join Atlético Madrid's pre-season schedule.

Even if Lee joins team training, Atlético Madrid is conducting remote training to ensure he can follow the sessions as closely as possible.

Reported by Kim Jiuk | Video by Seo Byeong-wook | Graphics by Yook Do-hyun | Produced by SBS Digital News
※ Please note: This article was translated by AI and may contain errors.