Paris Saint-Germain Midfielder's Altercation with Son Heung-min Sparks Changes in Advertising Campaign

Courtesy of Lee Kang-in's instagram

Several branches of KT have taken down promotional posters featuring Lee Kang-in advertising the Galaxy S24 series on February 16, a day ahead of the initially planned schedule. The promotional event, which was set to run until February 17, faced premature removals from some branches, with KT stating that these decisions were made independently by the branches based on factors such as working hours. 

▲ Courtesy of Lee Kang-in's instagramA spokesperson for KT clarified that the removals were guided after the scheduled event end date, and no formal decisions have been made regarding the sponsorship deal with Lee Kang-in. The Paris Saint-Germain midfielder issued an apology last week for his involvement in an altercation with national team captain Son Heung-min on the sidelines of the Asian Cup earlier in the month.

The reported disagreement leading to the altercation occurred during a team dinner the night before Korea's semifinal loss to Jordan on February 6. According to sources, Son Heung-min allegedly grabbed Lee by the collar, prompting Lee to retaliate with a swing. Some reports suggest that this incident may have resulted in an injury to Son's finger, though Lee's legal representatives have denied any physical altercation.

Lee Kang-in first entered a sponsorship deal with KT in 2019 after winning the Golden Ball at the 2019 FIFA U-20 World Cup, and he has been the company's advertising model since then. KT recently renewed its contract with Lee in January, though specific details about the duration and terms of the deal remain undisclosed.

Meanwhile, local franchise chicken brand Alachi, which has featured Lee Kang-in in its advertising since January last year, is facing criticism from some customers in light of the recent controversy. Comments from dissatisfied customers indicate a potential impact on the brand's reputation due to its association with the embattled footballer.

Sayart

Sayart, sayart2022@gmail.com