This is Kim’s first appointment as a head coach in the K League, having previously held assistant jobs at Busan IPark and Gyeongnam FC.

Kim’s rise to prominence began when he took charge of the Hong Kong national team (2012-2017) before further enhancing his reputation with Malaysia (2022-2024).

The 55-year-old became the first head coach to guide Malaysia to an AFC Asian Cup spot on merit in 43 years.

He will have the opportunity to lead Ulsan HD into the inaugural season of the AFC Champions League Elite with the club qualifying by virtue of being K League 1 champions in the 2023 season.

Ulsan HD are currently sitting in fourth spot domestically, two points behind league leaders, Gangwon FC.