Coach Kim Sang Sik returns to South Korea to celebrate Lunar New Year after a golden year with Vietnam

Coach Kim Sang Sik returned to South Korea for Seollal following an outstanding year of achievements alongside Vietnamese football.

After a busy year working with Vietnamese football, Coach Kim Sang Sik has gone back to South Korea to celebrate the 2026 Lunar New Year with his family. While domestic competitions are on break, the 1976-born strategist also paused his intense work schedule to enjoy rare moments with his loved ones.

The year 2025 marks the brightest period of his career since taking charge of Vietnam’s national teams. From the emotional victory at the 2024 ASEAN Cup, the Gold Medal at the 33rd SEA Games, to the Bronze Medal at the 2026 AFC U23 Championship,he has helped create a historic streak of achievements. These honors not only elevated Vietnamese football but also confirmed the stature of the Korean coach.

Before leaving Hanoi, Coach Kim Sang Sik prepared many gifts rich in Vietnamese culture to take back home. He chose lotus tea, coffee, and traditional áo dài outfits — a costume he particularly admires. These are not just New Year presents but also his way of sharing affection for the country he has been closely connected with.

Known for his dedication and workaholic nature, he admits that the Lunar New Year break is a necessary pause. After a stressful period with a packed match schedule, returning to South Korea helps him recharge and restore both physical and mental balance. It is also a time to reflect on past journeys and plan new goals.

In his homeland, Coach Kim Sang Sik will reunite with his wife and children and participate in traditional Seollal ceremonies. Family bonds are always regarded by him as a vital support, sustaining his motivation whenever facing major challenges with the team.

According to plans, he will come back to Vietnam at the end of February to prepare for the World Cup qualifiers and other key tasks in 2026. Fans hope that after a warm holiday at home, the head coach will bring renewed inspiration to continue accompanying Vietnamese football on its journey to conquer new heights.