Thomas Frank Wants to Try Kimchi —But What About Son Heung-min’s Future?

[OSENWORLD] Tottenham Hotspur’s newly appointed manager Thomas Frank says he’s looking forward to trying kimchi — but could his words also offer a subtle clue about the future of club captain Son Heung-min?

In a recent Q&A shared on Spurs’ official channel, Frank responded to a series of fan-submitted questions. One asked whether he liked kimchi, the traditional Korean fermented dish. With a laugh, Frank replied:

"I need to be honest. I heard about it. I've never tried it. I really look forward to try it when we go to South Korea."

While a light-hearted comment on the surface, Frank’s reference to visiting Korea has sparked speculation. Tottenham is set to travel to Asia this summer, with high-profile friendlies scheduled against Arsenal in Hong Kong (July 31) and Newcastle United in Seoul (August 3) as part of the Coupang Play Series. It will be the club’s third visit to Korea since 2022 — a clear nod to the enduring star power of Son Heung-min in the region.

Yet Son’s future remains uncertain. The 33-year-old forward is entering the final year of his contract, and interest from Middle Eastern clubs has reportedly intensified. The BBC reported on June 18 that the Asia tour could prove decisive, with Son’s post-tour destination still very much up in the air.

Fueling speculation further, Frank made no mention of Son during his first official interview as Spurs manager. That silence, combined with Spurs’ recent youth-focused moves — such as the permanent signing of 19-year-old Mathys Tel — has raised questions about whether the club is preparing for life after Son.

Son has been a cornerstone of Tottenham since joining in 2015, scoring 173 goals and providing 101 assists in 454 matches. He also captained the team to UEFA Europa League glory last season — their first major trophy in 17 years.

The stakes are high. The BBC emphasized that pre-season tours are major revenue generators, especially in Asian markets. Son’s absence could cause friction with organizers. "His involvement in various activities whilst on tour will have already been agreed, with Tottenham committed to delivering on those plans" the BBC reported. "It is understood that it would take an offer way above Son's valuation for Tottenham to consider selling their skipper ahead of the tour."

As of now, no official offers have been made for Son. But Thomas Frank’s tour-related remarks — even those about kimchi — are being closely dissected by fans and media alike.

Was it just a cultural curiosity? Or an indirect confirmation that he plans to keep Son in the squad — at least through the summer? Either way, this summer’s tour may reveal more than just what’s on the pitch.

/k_inside@osen.co.kr