Hanoi, 18 April 2026 – After more than two years in Vietnam, Coach Kim Sang-sik has left an indelible mark, not just through trophies but through a deeply humanistic management philosophy. Transitioning from a hesitant first-time expatriate to a settled leader, the Korean strategist has firmly established his position in Southeast Asian football.
Overcoming the “Temporary” Mindset
Coach Kim shared a poignant detail about his early days: he hesitated to fully unpack his luggage, fearing the volatility of the “hot seat.” In modern football, results are the sole measure of a coach’s survival. However, through relentless effort and a deep understanding of local culture, he transformed this pressure into motivation. Winning three regional titles and securing third place at the AFC U23 Asian Cup were more than just statistics; they were proof of his successful integration. Today, he considers himself fully settled, ready for long-term strategic goals.
Heart-to-Heart Management and Professionalism
Inheriting the legacy of Park Hang-seo, Kim believes tactics are only half the battle; the rest lies in “reaching the players’ hearts.” He has cultivated a flexible leadership style—a strict disciplinarian during training and a supportive “elder brother” or close friend in daily life. This proximity allows him to understand his players’ aspirations and anxieties, helping them overcome psychological barriers to peak performance.
Nevertheless, he remains candid about areas for improvement. Kim pointed out that Vietnamese players need to bolster their confidence in high-stakes matches and adopt a more rigorous professional mindset regarding physical conditioning. He emphasized that to compete at the highest level beyond the age of 35, much like Cristiano Ronaldo or Lionel Messi, players must invest scientifically in their physical health rather than relying solely on natural talent.
A Vision for Vietnam-Korea Relations
Kim Sang-sik attributes the success of Korean experts in Vietnam to a shared cultural bond known as “Jeong” in Korean or “Tình” in Vietnamese. This emotional connection acts as a catalyst for effective collaboration. However, he also advocates for a modernization of the “senior-junior” hierarchy within the team, moving toward a more egalitarian environment where young talents can express themselves without the constraints of traditional etiquette.
Looking ahead, Coach Kim harbors ambitions of becoming a sports ambassador. He aims to bridge youth academy systems, attract sponsorships from major Korean corporations, and enhance the commercial value of the V.League 1. For him, football is more than a game; it is a bridge strengthening the bond between two nations, especially as high-level diplomatic relations between Vietnam and South Korea continue to flourish.
VSN/RPT
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