Former Indonesia national team head coach Shin Tae-yong has returned to football management after an eight-month absence, taking charge of one of Indonesia's most historic clubs.
On June 8, Persija Jakarta officially announced Shin's appointment through the club's social media channels, unveiling a welcome video featuring the South Korean coach.
"Welcome, Coach Shin Tae-yong. Jakarta has been waiting for you," the club wrote alongside the announcement.
In the introductory video, Shin outlined his coaching philosophy and ambitions for his new role.
"I believe in principles and discipline. Those are always my highest priorities," Shin said.
"I lead my teams with passion. I never lose focus until the very last second in pursuit of victory. I also believe in the potential of young players and in helping the development of Jakarta and Indonesian football."
"It is true that I can be strict, but creating a strong team spirit and a family atmosphere is also an important part of football. Together, we will move forward and restore glory to this city."
Founded in 1928, Persija Jakarta is one of Indonesia's oldest football clubs and will celebrate its 100th anniversary in the coming years. Based in the nation's capital, the club plays its home matches at the Jakarta International Stadium, an 82,000-seat venue that ranks among the largest football stadiums in Asia.
Despite its rich history and enormous fanbase, Persija has won the Indonesian top-flight title only once since the establishment of the modern league system, lifting the Liga 1 trophy in 2018.
Shin therefore arrives with the task of leading one of Indonesia's most famous clubs into a new era of success.
The appointment marks Shin's first managerial role since his departure from Ulsan HD eight months ago.
Widely regarded as one of South Korea's most accomplished coaches, Shin has managed Seongnam Ilhwa Chunma, South Korea's U-20 national team, the senior national team and multiple youth sides throughout his career.
In 2020, he took on the challenge of transforming Indonesian football, overseeing both the senior national team and several youth national teams.
During his tenure, Indonesia won a bronze medal at the 2021 Southeast Asian Games in Hanoi, captured gold at the 2023 Southeast Asian Games in Phnom Penh and reached the semifinals of the 2024 AFC U-23 Asian Cup in Qatar, eventually finishing fourth.
However, despite the progress achieved under his leadership, Shin was unexpectedly dismissed by the Football Association of Indonesia in January 2025.
After several months away from international football, he returned to coaching in August 2025 with reigning K League 1 champions Ulsan HD.
The appointment generated considerable excitement, but the spell ultimately ended in disappointment.
Under Shin, Ulsan recorded two wins, four draws and four defeats in 10 league matches. Internal conflicts within the squad further complicated matters, and his tenure lasted only around two months before he was dismissed.
The aftermath proved equally contentious, with both Shin and the club publicly criticizing one another following the separation.
Now, the 55-year-old coach has chosen Indonesia as the stage for the next chapter of his career.
Persija owner Mohamad Prapanca explained the club's reasoning during a press conference announcing the appointment.
"Persija needed someone with experience," Prapanca said. "We wanted a coach who possesses experience at the highest level."
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