Lee Dong-gook

Pohang invested in coaching and education, giving talented players a route from childhood into the professional team.

Lee Dong-gook emerged as a teenage striker in the late 1990s before building one of the longest and most decorated careers in the league.

Hwang Hee-chan developed in Pohang's school system before moving directly to Red Bull Salzburg, and later, the Premier League.

Not every prospect stays long enough to strengthen the first team.