Yang Min-hyeok returns to KVC Westerlo after Asian Games gold

South Korean footballer Yang Min-hyeok has returned to his Belgian club, KVC Westerlo, following his gold medal win at the 2026 Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games. His teammates welcomed him with a guard of honor and flowers, as documented by the club on social media.

Yang, who is currently on loan from Tottenham Hotspur, played a decisive role in the final against Japan, providing the cross that led to the winning goal. However, his post-match comments—stating that he played primarily for the military service exemption rather than the medal—sparked significant public backlash and political debate regarding military service privileges.

Yang has since issued an apology via social media, stating that while the exemption was a motivation, his intention was to honor the national team, and he regrets how his words were perceived. Other Asian Games gold medalists, including Lee Ki-hyuk and Park Seung-soo, have also returned to their respective clubs amidst similar discussions regarding their remarks on military service.