Kim Kee-Hee officially rejoins Sounders

Kim Kee-Hee has officially returned to the Seattle Sounders, the team announced on Tuesday. The centerback previously played for the Sounders in 2018-2019, a stretch that included a start in the 2019 MLS Cup. Sounder at Heart first reported the signing on Jan. 15.

“I am very happy to welcome Kim back to the club and have him join our current squad,” Sounders head coach Brian Schmetzer said in a team release. “He’s a smart, composed defender who understands what it takes to compete at the highest level. Given his familiarity with our team, I expect him to seamlessly fit into our system and elevate the players around him.”

After leaving the Sounders on a free transfer, he played the next five seasons for South Korean powerhouse Ulsan HD, where he was a regular starter for one of the best teams in all of Asia. Ulsan finished atop the K-League four times and never finished below second during Kim’s five seasons. Kim made 23 appearances in the Asian Champions League and two more in the Club World Cup. Ulsan will also be playing in this summer’s Club World Cup.

Aside from occupying an international roster spot, it is understood that Kim comes to the Sounders virtually for free. Ulsan apparently agreed to allow him to leave with no compensation and he will likely make close to the senior minimum with the Sounders.

Although he was a starter for Ulsan as recently as last season, the expectation is that the 35-year-old is coming to Seattle mostly as a depth piece.

“Signing a player of his caliber adds experience and quality to our squad, on top of invaluable veteran leadership that will be crucial during a busy and demanding season,” Sounders GM Craig Waibel said in a team statement. “We look forward to bringing him in to bolster our already talented defensive unit.”

Kim’s signing leaves the Sounders with 27 of 30 active roster spots filled, with the final international roster spot likely being held for a U22 signing that might not be made until the summer.