![Fans line up to purchase Son Heung-min jerseys at the LAFC uniform pop-up store set up at the Line Hotel on February 10. A video of Son wearing the new jersey plays on the wall behind them. [Kyeongjun Kim, The Korea Daily]](https://www.koreadailyus.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/0212-LAFC.jpg)
LAFC new jersey was unveiled in Koreatown ahead of the club’s new season, which opens on the t with a highly anticipated matchup between Son Heung-min and Lionel Messi. The event underscored the team’s growing engagement with the Korean American community in Los Angeles.
Recently, several L.A.-based professional sports teams, including the NHL’s LA Kings, have held events celebrating Korean culture. LAFC is now expanding its outreach to Koreatown in a similar effort.
On February 10, LAFC held its 2026 season uniform launch at The Line Hotel on Wilshire Boulevard in central Koreatown. John Thorrington, LAFC co-president and general manager, and co-president Larry Freedman attended the event. They explained the design concept and the background behind the new kit.
Thorrington described Koreatown as “the heart of L.A.” He noted that the neighborhood offers easy access for supporters and is close to downtown, where BMO Stadium is located. In addition, he said the club will operate a pop-up store at The Line Hotel for one week.
Regarding Son Heung-min’s reaction, Thorrington said he was not present when the player first saw the jersey. However, he added that Son personally brought the uniform to his office and expressed satisfaction and excitement. Thorrington said all players, including Son, are pleased with the new design.
![The LAFC 2026 home uniform [Kyeongjun Kim, The Korea Daily]](https://www.koreadailyus.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/0212-jersey.jpg)
The LAFC new jersey draws inspiration from the Art Deco architectural style that shaped downtown Los Angeles in the 1920s and 1930s. Notably, the gold metallic pattern featured on the grand lobby wall of BMO Stadium appears across the front of the kit.
The phrase “Los Angeles” is woven into the back of the collar. Meanwhile, the club’s slogan, “Shoulder to Shoulder,” is embroidered inside the neckline.
Freedman said the design centers on the grand lobby wall at BMO Stadium. He explained that just as visitors are welcomed through that space, the club hopes those who see the jersey will also feel welcomed.
Freedman also emphasized that LAFC’s identity reflects the broader culture of Los Angeles. He said the club was founded with the goal of rooting itself authentically in the city. He added that the team welcomes everyone, regardless of race, religion or belief.
Last year, jerseys sold out early following Son Heung-min’s transfer. Freedman said he hopes inventory will be sufficient this season. However, he noted that additional supplies will be provided midseason through Adidas and Fanatics, giving fans another opportunity to purchase the kit.
The unveiling in Koreatown highlights LAFC’s effort to connect with diverse communities as the new season begins.
BY KYEONGJUN KIM [kim.kyeongjun@koreadaily.com]
