In 1991, he debuted as a professional player with Pohang Steelers (then POSCO Atoms) right after his graduation from high school, which was quite unusual then.

He started to appear in the top team matches after joining Yukong Elephants (Bucheon SK after 1996).

Bucheon at that time was highly recognized to have a strong midfield under manager Valeri Nepomniachi, and he was a key member.

He now holds 2nd place in career domestic appearance (league and cups) in K-League, only after goalkeeper Kim Byung-Ji.

On 9 July 2011, he became the oldest ever score in the K-League with his goal in the 7–0 victory over Daejeon Citizen.