DC United signs South Korea’s Kim Joon Hong and boosts its defensive potential | OneFootball

A calculated move from the side of DC United as they signed 21-year-old South Korean goalkeeper Kim Joon Hong, who would inspire change in the club's backline. Joining the Black-and-Red on a contract through 2027 with an option to extend to 2028, the arrival of Joon Hong opens up some very important questions as to what this signing truly means for the MLS team.

A promising goalkeeper and his journey so far

Kim Joon Hong might not be a household name among MLS fans just yet, but his career path in the K League and on the international stage speaks volumes about his potential. The young goalkeeper shone bright as he helped Gimcheon Sangmu FC gain promotion to K League 1. His development at the academy of Jeonbuk Hyundai Motors FC, a powerhouse in South Korean soccer, further solidified his strong foundation.

Joon Hong played a key part in South Korea's fourth place at the 2023 FIFA U-20 World Cup. Yet to make his international bow for the senior national team, eight substitute bench appearances prove he's on the radar for future games.

Fitting into DC United's system

Not a random decision, the signing of Joon Hong represents an outcome of deep analyses that have been performed. According to DC United's general manager and head of soccer operations Ally Mackay, his profile fits perfectly with what head coach Troy Lesesne is looking for.

“Kim is a very talented young goalkeeper who showed his abilities during last season in the K League”, Mackay said. “He’s a player we’ve been monitoring closely, and his goalkeeper profile fits exactly what Troy is looking for in his system. We’re excited to welcome him to the club and strengthen our squad ahead of the season.”

Fast pace and physical intensity in gameplay marks an MLS game — the type that goalkeepers with heavy technical ability is good in reading the game for a proper result and adaptive features — a point Joon Hong's arrival checked all while being a promising talent. Competitive Opportunity

As the third goalkeeping addition of the offseason-joining Jordan Farr and Luis Barraza-Joon Hong adds more depth to the position. This internal competition among skilled players not only raises the bar for the whole squad but also builds a developmental environment that young talents like Joon Hong can grow into.