Paris Saint-Germain midfielder Lee Kang-in was named South Korea's top football player for 2025.
Lee was announced as the men's Player of the Year at the 2025 Korea Football Association (KFA) Awards held at Korea Football Park in Cheonan on December 24. This marks his first time receiving the honor.
The Player of the Year is determined by combining 50% of votes from a press panel with 50% from KFA experts, including the Technical Development Committee, Performance Enhancement Committee, and women's football coaches.
Lee earned 31.4 combined points, edging out Son Heung-min, last year's winner and record seven-time recipient, who received 29.2 points. Lee Jae-sung of Mainz placed third with 12.9 points.
Lee played a pivotal role in PSG's treble-winning 2024-2025 season, capturing the UEFA Champions League, Ligue 1, and Coupe de France titles.
The Asian Football Confederation recognized his achievements by naming him International Player of the Year in October 2025.
In a video acceptance speech, Lee said, "I thank my national team teammates who gave their all alongside me, the staff supporting us behind the scenes, and the football fans who cheer for us in any situation."
He added, "2025 has been a very meaningful year for me. I believe 2026 will be even more significant with the World Cup. I will do my best to deliver an even better performance at the World Cup."
Jang Seul-gi of Gyeongju Hansu Won (18.4 points) was named women's Player of the Year for the third time, following her 2018 and 2020 wins.
Jang was recognized for her contribution to the women's national team's E-1 Championship victory—their first in 20 years—and for earning the tournament's MVP award.
Ji So-yeon of Suwon FC, the all-time leader in wins, finished second with 15 points, while Jung Ji-yeon of Hwacheon KSPO placed third with 12.5 points.
The Young Player of the Year awards went to Kang Sang-yoon, who contributed to Jeonbuk Hyundai's domestic double last season and performed well for the national team, and Kim Min-ji of Seoul City in the women's category.
Suwon Samsung head coach Lee Jung-hyo, who led his team in K League 2, won the men's Coach of the Year award.
Hwacheon KSPO head coach Kang Sun-mi received the women's Coach of the Year award after guiding her team to a treble, winning the National Women's Football Championship, National Sports Festival, and WK League integrated championship.
Referee of the Year honors went to men's referee Kim Dae-yong, women's referee Oh Hyun-jung, men's assistant referee Bang Ki-yeol, and women's assistant referee Jung Eun-ju.