South Korea's Lee Ki-Heok & Kim Tae-Hyeon linked to Red Star Belgrade
South Korea's World Cup stars Lee Ki-Heok (26, Gangwon FC) and Kim Tae-Hyeon (25, Kashima Antlers) have emerged as transfer targets for Serbian giants FK Crvena Zvezda. One of the duo could be set for a European move. South Korea currently sits 3rd in the 2026 World Cup with 3 points (1W-0D-2L) and is unbeaten in their last 2 games (1W-1D).
Serbian media reports interest in Korean duo
Serbian outlet 'Mozart Sport' reported on July 20 (KST) that "Zvezda is again targeting the Korean market" and "there are claims they could sign a left-footed center-back." The report notes Zvezda has increased interest in Korean players after the success of Sul Young-woo, who joined from Ulsan HD in 2024. Hwang In-beom (Porto) also previously played for Zvezda from 2023-2024.
Why are Kim Tae-Hyeon & Lee Ki-Heok on Zvezda's radar?
Kim Tae-Hyeon became a regular starter at Kashima Antlers after joining in 2025, helping the team win the J1 League. Lee Ki-Heok has been a key player for Gangwon FC and featured in every match at the 2026 World Cup. Both players offer versatility and potential to adapt to European football.
No official offer yet, but interest remains
Zvezda has not yet made an official offer for either player. However, the report states that "internally, they consider both players viable targets." According to Transfermarkt, Kim Tae-Hyeon is valued at €1.2 million (~20 billion KRW), while Lee Ki-Heok is valued at €800,000 (~14 billion KRW).
