When Money Wasn't Everything: Lee Young-pyo's Bold Choice That Changed Korean Football History

The Transfer Saga That Defined a Career

Did you know that one of Korea's greatest footballers once turned down double the salary to chase his dreams? Lee Young-pyo, the legendary left-back who helped South Korea reach the 2002 World Cup semifinals, recently opened up about a career-defining moment that shocked many. In a July 2025 appearance on former national team goalkeeper Kim Young-kwang's YouTube channel, Lee revealed that six clubs competed for his signature in 2005, including Tottenham Hotspur, AS Monaco, Manchester City, Newcastle United, West Ham United, and FC Porto.

The 48-year-old, who earned 127 caps for South Korea, explained that Monaco offered nearly twice the salary Tottenham proposed. Even more surprisingly, Monaco's manager at the time was none other than Didier Deschamps, who would later lead France to the 2018 World Cup title. Deschamps personally called Lee to explain his tactical plans and how the Korean defender would fit into his system. Despite this tempting offer and the persuasive efforts of a world-class manager, Lee chose the English Premier League, demonstrating that sometimes ambition trumps financial security.

When Hiddink Almost Said No

The plot thickens when you consider Lee's relationship with Guus Hiddink, his manager at PSV Eindhoven. Hiddink, who had brought Lee to the Netherlands after the 2002 World Cup, wasn't exactly thrilled about the Monaco interest. According to Lee's recent interview, Hiddink questioned his motivations, asking pointedly whether he was going to Monaco to earn more money and play comfortably at a resort-like location. This wasn't just casual banter but reflected Hiddink's belief that Lee belonged at a more competitive level.

The Dutch master tactician had taken Lee under his wing after witnessing his stellar performances during Korea's historic World Cup run. At PSV, Lee had established himself as one of the best left-backs in the Eredivisie, helping the team compete in the UEFA Champions League. When transfer speculation heated up in summer 2005, Hiddink initially resisted letting his prized defender leave, even offering Lee the second-highest salary at PSV after club captain Phillip Cocu. However, Lee's determination to test himself in what he called the world's best league eventually convinced Hiddink to approve the Tottenham move. The manager reportedly told Lee that he wouldn't have allowed a transfer to Monaco, essentially validating Lee's choice of ambition over money.

Making History in the Premier League

Lee's gamble paid off spectacularly. Joining Tottenham in August 2005 for a reported transfer fee of 3 million euros on a four-year contract, he became only the second Korean player in Premier League history after Park Ji-sung. His debut season was nothing short of remarkable. Manager Martin Jol immediately installed him as the starting left-back, and Lee earned the highest team rating in his debut match against Liverpool. His attacking flair, overlapping runs, and precise crossing quickly won over Tottenham supporters.

Over three seasons at White Hart Lane, Lee made 92 appearances for Spurs, including 30 Premier League matches in his debut campaign. He helped Tottenham qualify for the UEFA Cup and lifted the League Cup trophy in 2008, even though he missed the final through injury. British media Football London later ranked him among Tottenham's greatest number 3s, alongside Danny Rose and Gareth Bale. Korean fans particularly remember how Lee proved Asian players could thrive at the highest level of European football. His consistent performances paved the way for future Korean stars, including his successor at Tottenham, Son Heung-min, who joined the club a decade later in 2015.

The Cultural Impact and Legacy

Lee's decision resonated deeply within Korean football culture, where his story became a powerful lesson about prioritizing career development over immediate financial rewards. Korean online communities on platforms like Naver and DC Inside praised his professionalism and long-term thinking. Comments frequently noted how his choice to face tougher competition in the Premier League ultimately enhanced his reputation and legacy far more than a bigger paycheck in France would have.

The contrast with today's transfer market makes Lee's sacrifice even more striking. In 2025, with astronomical salaries being offered by Saudi Arabian and Chinese leagues, Lee's story serves as a reminder that the greatest players are driven by more than money. His journey from the 2002 World Cup hero to PSV star to Premier League regular and eventually Borussia Dortmund player showcased remarkable consistency across different leagues and cultures. Now working as a football commentator and having served as CEO of K League club Gangwon FC, Lee continues to inspire younger generations. His revelation about turning down Monaco's lucrative offer adds another layer to his legendary status, proving that the path to greatness sometimes requires saying no to the easiest option.