Cho emerged as a national star when he played for South Korean under-23 team in the 2004 Summer Olympics.

Cho showed impressive performances including 45 goals in 101 J1 League appearances while playing for Shimizu S-Pulse from 2004 to 2007.

David Pleat, an expert of The Guardian at the time, selected him as one of six talents outside the Premier League after the World Cup.

[5] Cho is a close friend of Kim Dong-jin, who was also a member of South Korean Olympic team.

Suwon Samsung Bluewings Gwangju Sangmu Bulsajo Shimizu S-Pulse Gamba Osaka South Korea