David Yoo Keeps City's Korean Connection Going

Words: ACFC Media

Thursday 27 February 2025

Auckland City FC is delighted to welcome David Yoo to the club, further strengthening a rich Korean footballing legacy that has been part of the club’s history for over two decades.

Yoo’s arrival at Kiwitea Street follows in the footsteps of his compatriots at Auckland City FC, including Daewook Kim, Ki-Hyung Lee, Joe Lee, and Chan Goo-Yoon, all of whom made significant contributions to the club's success.

Their presence helped bridge cultures, bringing a unique Korean influence to Auckland City FC’s footballing philosophy. Yoo now becomes the latest player to carry that tradition forward, joining the club at an exciting and historic moment in its journey.

"I started playing when I was really young, probably when I was six or seven years old," said Yoo. "Obviously, I came to New Zealand when I was very young, just nine months old. But I always had a ball around the house, and my dad was really into football, so I was always playing. Football was always on the TV, so it was natural for me."

Auckland City FC’s connection with Korean football extends beyond individual players. In 2017, the Navy Blues famously defeated K League giants FC Seoul 1-0 at the Nike Lunar New Year Cup in Hong Kong, a testament to the club’s ability to compete with some of Asia’s best teams.

Now, as Auckland City FC prepares for its biggest challenge yet at the FIFA Club World Cup in the United States, Yoo’s addition adds further strength to a squad that is ready to take on the world’s elite.

"It’s a huge honour to join Auckland City FC," Yoo said. "Obviously, this is the best domestic team in New Zealand, and they’ve been so successful for so many years.

"It’s a massive year ahead with a lot on the line, but it’s exciting. It’s going to be a challenge, but it’s something to look forward to with all the games coming up."

Yoo has quickly settled into life at Kiwitea Street, embracing the club’s culture and work ethic.

"It’s been really good," he said. "Everyone has been really welcoming, it’s a great group of boys, and training has been really good. I think I’ve settled in pretty well."

With Auckland City FC set to represent Oceania at the FIFA Club World Cup and compete for domestic honours once again, the club is proud to continue fostering connections across the footballing world.

Yoo’s arrival symbolises the ever-growing relationship between New Zealand and Korea, both on and off the pitch, and the club looks forward to seeing him thrive in Navy Blue.

환영합니다, David! Welcome to Auckland City FC!

Ends