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Son Heung-Min: WATCH emotive video after avoiding military service as South Korea win gold
SON HEUNG-MIN won’t have to undertake military service for South Korea after helping his country win the Asian Games - and his reaction was priceless.
Son Heung-Min ecstatic as South Korea win gold at Asian Games
At 26 years old, Son knew this was his final chance of earning exemption from the compulsory military service for all able-bodied South Korean men.
They must serve 21 months of military service before the age of 28 and there are only a few ways of gaining exemption.
Fortunately for Son, South Korea’s 2-1 extra-time win over Japan in the Asian Games today means he will not have to do so.
The Tottenham star assisted both goals as South Korea retained their title.
The celebrations immediately began when the final whistle was blown with every member of the South Korean team running around in jubilation.
Son could be seen at the centre of the scene, hugging his team-mates and also shedding a few tears.
"This was a really tough game but we knew that it would be, for everyone, this is a big tournament," Son told ESPN FC.
"We played well when we needed too but we also had to dig deep.
"I want to say that my teammates have been amazing. It has been a tough time here but we pulled together and the team spirit was special. We worked so hard.
"I also want to talk about Tottenham. I had so many messages from Spurs and the fans and it was great.
"They have supported me so much and that means a lot to me.
"I really want to say thank you to the coach and the fans of Spurs. They are so special.
"Now I am looking forward to getting back to England and showing what I can do. "
He could have earned exemption at the 2014 Asian Games when South Korea won gold, but Bayer Leverkusen - his club at the time - refused to let him join up with his country.
Son will now be able to return to Tottenham with the knowledge that he won’t have to leave the club due to military service.
The winger could well make his return for Spurs after the international break when they host Liverpool in two week’s time or in their Champions League opener against Inter Milan.