South Korean men’s doubles great Lee Yong-dae recently admitted he loves Malaysia so much that he considered migrating here!

The 2008 Olympics gold medalist took part in the Kuching Green Run held last month, and he expressed his thoughts on Malaysia during the event.

“Malaysian people are really kind. I have visited the country many times, they are always nice and kind! I really liked it here that I actually wanted to live here. Malaysia, Indonesia, Southeast Asia in general,” Lee told South Korean broadcaster SPOTV.

The former world number one also talked about the food he loved in the country.

“Since I’m back in Malaysia, the food that I remember and like are nasi lemak and laksa! It was really good. The soup was delicious and thick,” added Lee, who kept being approached by other runners for pictures.

“I wish the Malaysian badminton players could’ve come here too. Like Lee Chong Wei and the recent Paris Olympics medalists Aaron Chia and Soh Wooi Yik.”

The 36-year-old also complimented the organizers of the Kuching Green Run.

“It’s really good to see families coming out and enjoying this run. The weather is good and so many people are smiling and walking so early in the morning. It will really make my day!”

The three-time World Championships silver medalist also explained that even though he has retired from international competitions, he is still active back home in South Korea as a player and a playing coach.

Malaysia certainly holds plenty of fond memories for Lee, besides the great hospitality and food.

He won his first World Championships silver medal in Kuala Lumpur with partner Jung Jae-sung back in 2007.

A year later, Lee won his maiden Asian Championships title with Jung in Johor Bahru.

After that, he went on to win the 2009 Malaysia Open and 2020 Malaysia Masters silverware with Jung and Kim Gi-jung respectively.