BREAKING: Korean coach signs very unusual contract with Vietnam national team

Kim Do Heon, as an assistant coach, has signed a short-term contract with the Vietnam national team in preparation for the AFF Cup and FIFA ASEAN Cup.

Coach Kim Do Heon has officially joined the coaching staff of the Vietnam national team., assuming the position of assistant to head coach Kim Sang Sik. The arrival of the Korean manager is considered a key reinforcement as the "Golden Star Warriors" gear up for their big targets in 2026, notably the AFF Cup 2026 and the FIFA ASEAN Cup.

The noteworthy aspect is the contract length between Kim Do Heon and the Vietnam Football Federation. As revealed, former West Bromwich Albion player is only committed to the team on a short-term contract, lasting until early October 2026. This indicates that the VFF wants additional time to assess his fit before looking at a more long-term arrangement.

On his personal social media, Kim Do Heon confirmed that he has joined the Vietnam national team to be part of the AFF Cup 2026 and FIFA ASEAN Cup 2026 campaigns. The 1982-born coach acknowledged that his work timeframe is not extensive, but he vowed to give his utmost to support the squad, contribute to preparations, and strive for the best outcomes in the forthcoming competitions.

Per the schedule, the 2026 AFF Cup will be held from July 24 to August 26, while the FIFA ASEAN Cup is slated to take place from June 21 to October 9. Therefore, Kim Do Heon will go through the year's peak period alongside the Vietnam team, a time when the squad requires stability in professionalism, staffing, and tactical approaches in order to chase results.

Kim Do Heon began his duties with the national team on June 21, taking over the assistant role vacated by coach Lee Jung Soo. With a background of having played and worked within Korean football circles, he is anticipated to help head coach Kim Sang Sik develop the team's style, enhance training standards, and pass on further knowledge to the players.

Hiring a foreign assistant on a short-term deal is nothing new for the VFF. Earlier, goalkeeper coach Lee Won Jae also worked on such terms when he joined the Vietnam national team's coaching staff ahead of the 2024 AFF Cup. After making a favorable impact with both the senior team and the U23 side, he was given a formal contract in March 2025, and later renewed through 2027.