Global Soccer Icon Joins LAFC as City Prepares for 2026 FIFA World Cup
LOS ANGELES – Mayor Karen Bass last week joined Los Angeles Football Club (LAFC) to officially welcome international football star Son Heung-min to Los Angeles, marking a historic milestone for the club, the city, and the global game.
During a press conference held at BMO Stadium, Mayor Bass presented Son Heung-min with a Certificate of Recognition on behalf of the City of Los Angeles, commending his contributions to international football and designating him as an honorary Angeleno. Watch here.
Below is a transcript of Mayor Bass’ remarks:
Good afternoon, everyone. This is an exciting day for the City of Los Angeles on behalf of the millions of Angelenos and soccer fans around the world – Sonny, welcome to Los Angeles.
This is not just a major signing – it’s a moment that will be remembered in this city for generations to come.
Now, I remember standing on this very ground at BMO Stadium nine years ago – before a single seat was filled or a single match was played. Will Ferrell, Magic Johnson, LAFC leadership, we all stood shoulder to shoulder dreaming about what this club could become.
Back then, we weren’t just building a stadium, we knew that, It was very intentional. We were building a dream… a vision of what soccer would mean for Los Angeles: a game that unites us, inspires us, and reflects the strength and diversity of this city.
Since then, this stadium has delivered on that promise as we have welcomed people from all across the world. It has inspired and provided a sense of joy to countless fans, our city and world.
So this is not just a step up for this club – it’s a leap forward for our city, as we prepare in 11 short months to welcome the world for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. So your decision to come here now sends a very strong message. Los Angeles isn’t just ready to host FIFA – Los Angeles is ready to lead. Aren’t we ready, Los Angeles?
And Sonny, I know you called this the “perfect moment.” I want you to know we couldn’t agree more about that, but not just for Los Angeles, it’s more than perfect – it’s personal. For our Korean American community. And you know Sonny you probably know this, there’s this debate in the country as to where most Koreans live outside of Seoul, and it’s this fight between New York and LA, but today, we’re gonna say that the Korean population in Los Angeles is the largest population outside of Seoul, right?
And Sonny, you’re coming at a perfect time because this year’s been a tough year for LA – but our momentum and our magic is back – and today, we celebrate that together we are one city.
So, to all of LAFC — thank you for your boldness, your vision, and your commitment to building a club that reflects the boldness of this city.
And to Sonny — as I said, I know you said it’s your second time, but welcome home. Because now, I’m gonna officially declare you an Angeleno!