[3] Lee started his youth career late in high school, but showed a fast development.

[5] Lee joined Yangzee,[6] founded by the Korean Central Intelligence Agency to develop the national team.

South Korea failed to qualify for the Olympics on goal difference, although their points were tied with Japan, the group winners.

[5] In the 1970 FIFA World Cup qualification, Lee showed poor performance and couldn't prevent South Korea's elimination.

[19] Lee recorded a goal against Hong Kong and two assists against Malaysia in the 1970 King's Cup, helping South Korea win the competition again.

[5][20] Lee played for South Korea in the 1970 Asian Games, making the effort to won a major title.

[26] Lee was nicknamed the "Leopard" in South Korea due to his innate stamina, rapid pace, and powerful shots.

However, his team lost all three group matches in the 1990 FIFA World Cup, struggling at world-class level.