Kim Min-jae grew up in Tongyeong, South Korea, and began his career at Gyeongju KHNP and Jeonbuk Hyundai Motors. He moved to Beijing Guoan in China in 2019 and then to Fenerbahçe in 2021.
Napoli signed him in 2022 to replace Kalidou Koulibaly, and he was named Serie A’s best defender as Napoli won the title in his only season. Bayern Munich signed him in 2023.
Kim is a physically dominant, fast centre-back and a key player for South Korea.
Playing style
Kim is a physically dominant, fast centre-back who excels at defending large spaces. He is strong in the tackle and the air, and his recovery pace means he rarely gets caught out. He is also comfortable carrying the ball forward and playing progressive passes. At Napoli he was a key part of the title-winning team, replacing Kalidou Koulibaly so effectively that he was named Serie A’s best defender in his only season. His nickname in Korea, ‘The Monster’, reflects his physical presence.
International career
Kim has been a key player for South Korea since his debut in 2017. He played at the 2022 World Cup, where South Korea reached the last 16, and at the 2023 Asian Cup.