In 2004, Kim's performance against Germany while under Johannes Bonfrere secured him the leftback or left midfield position (depending on the formation that was usually 4–3–3 or 3–4–3), which originally belonged to Lee Young-pyo. However, as Advocaat became the new manager of South Korea in November 2005, both Lee and Kim had to compete for the position. Since the two players proved to be highly influential to the national team, both players were rotated for the left back position during 2006 FIFA World Cup.