Lim Young-woong clarifies relationship with Son Heung-min

Singer Lim Young-woong shared his honest thoughts regarding his relationship with national football team captain Son Heung-min. Contrary to the public perception of a close friendship, he clarified that they have only "met a few times" and revealed that he refrains from contacting Son first to avoid being a burden.

In the sixth episode of the SBS variety show "Mountain Bachelor Hero," which aired on the 28th, actor Cha Seung Won and Kim Do-hoon visited Lim's mountain house to spend time together.

The conversation between the three naturally transitioned to football. Kim Do-hoon brought up the topic, noting that Lim, who is well-known as a football enthusiast, "is heard to frequently go to watch Premier League matches."

Then, he posed the most anticipated question.

Kim asked, "Are you actually close with Son Heung-min?" and Lim replied calmly with a smile.

"We've only met a few times," he said, adding, "Since he is such a world star, I refrain from contacting him first because I feel it might be uncomfortable for him."

The response reflected his deep respect and consideration for Son.

In response, Kim countered by saying, "Aren't you a star too?" but Lim made it clear that he is not on close, friendly terms with Son, showing caution against exaggerating their intimacy.

The discussion about football continued.

Kim marveled, "I saw you playing football every week. Isn't it almost at a club level?" to which Lim revealed that he consistently participates in Returns FC, a football team he founded himself.

Despite his busy schedule, Lim has shown extraordinary passion for the sport and is well-known as one of the entertainment industry's representative "football geeks."

Upon hearing this, Kim expressed his envy, saying, "From the perspective of someone who loves football, that is a truly successful life. Creating your own football club is like a dream," adding, "If I were to be reborn, I would want to be born as your younger brother."

Lim then shifted the mood with his signature wit.

He shot back, "Then I'll be born as you," and when Kim asked why, he replied, "Because I want to be as handsome as you," turning the scene into a sea of laughter.

The chemistry between the two, ranging from sincere football talk to pleasant banter, added another layer of fun to the broadcast. Viewers showed empathy toward Lim's honest attitude in explaining his relationship with Son without exaggeration, reacting with comments such as "You can feel his consideration," "His refusal to pretend to be close is even more likable," and "That's so Lim Young-woong."