Son Heung-Min Scores Big As La’S Honorary Angeleno With A Socal Soccer Spotlight on ONDA LA

LA Welcomes Son Heung-min with Open Arms and a Dodgers Pitch

Yo, LA is buzzing with some serious SoCal summer energy, and it’s all thanks to South Korean soccer icon Son Heung-min! The Tottenham Hotspur star and LAFC’s newest gem has just been dubbed an 'Honorary Angeleno' by the City of Angels, a title that’s got everyone from Hollywood to Koreatown hyped.

This ain’t just a pat on the back - it’s a full-on love letter from LA. Son threw the ceremonial first pitch at Dodger Stadium on the 27th (local time), linking soccer and baseball in a moment that had fans losing their minds. From the bleachers to the beach, this was pure LA magic, showing the world we’re more than just a pretty face on the West Coast.

“Having Son Heung-min as an Honorary Angeleno and part of LAFC is a game-changer for us,” said Adam Burke, head of the Los Angeles Tourism Agency. “We can’t wait for fans, especially from Korea, to come vibe with us at our world-class stadiums and soak in LA’s iconic charm!”

LA’s Soccer Scene Levels Up with Global Ambitions

LA isn’t just flexing with Son’s star power - the city’s gearing up to be the ultimate soccer hub with the 2026 FIFA North American World Cup on deck. The Los Angeles Tourism Organization just dropped the 'Guide to Soccer in Los Angeles,' a must-have for fans and travelers looking to experience the city in a whole new way. Think stadium tours, epic matches, and local hangouts where the soccer fever’s always turned up to 11.

Why’s this a big deal? LA’s already ranked No. 1 in the U.S. as the most football-friendly city in a 2025 WalletHub survey, crushing it in stadium access, championship wins, and straight-up fandom. With heavyweights like LA Galaxy, LAFC, and Angel City FC - backed by Hollywood royalty like Natalie Portman - the city’s soccer cred is undeniable.

Plus, with massive events like Copa America at the Rose Bowl and eight World Cup games at SoFi Stadium, LA’s cementing its spot as a global sports capital. And with Son as a symbolic bridge to South Korea - a huge market with over 300,000 visitors to LA in 2024 alone - expect even more international love heading our way.

Your Ultimate LA Soccer Tour Guide - From Stadiums to Street Vibes

World-Class Stadiums to Catch the Action

Ready to dive into LA’s soccer scene? Start with SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, a 70,000-seat beast hosting the 2026 FIFA World Cup opener. This ultra-modern spot - also home to NFL games and Super Bowl madness - offers tours for every vibe, from casual walk-throughs to private VIP experiences.

Then there’s BMO Stadium, LAFC’s 22,000-seat home base where Son Heung-min works his magic. Known for its wild fan section, 'The 3252,' it’s the heart of supporter culture. And don’t sleep on Dodger Stadium, where Son tossed that iconic first pitch, or Dignity Health Sports Park, the LA Galaxy’s 27,000-seat turf with a legacy of legends like David Beckham.

Matches You Can’t Miss in the City of Angels

Game day in LA is a whole mood. LAFC, fresh off their 2022 MLS Cup win, is the team to watch, especially with Son joining in 2025 - their 'El Trafico' derby against LA Galaxy is pure fire. Meanwhile, LA Galaxy, with six MLS titles and a history of stars like Zlatan Ibrahimović, brings the heat with rivalries like the 'California Clasico' against San Jose Earthquakes.

Don’t forget Angel City FC, the NWSL squad founded in 2022 with owners like Natalie Portman. They’re shaking up women’s sports and drawing huge crowds. Whether it’s MLS or NWSL, LA’s got matches that’ll have you screaming from the stands.

Where to Soak Up Fan Culture and Post-Game Vibes

LA’s soccer culture spills beyond the stadiums. LAFC fans rep hard at over 40 partner bars - hit up La Cita Bar in Downtown LA for game-day vibes or 'La Chouperia' in Lincoln Heights for that true fan energy. LA Galaxy supporters pack 'OB’s Pub & Grill' in Manhattan Beach, while international soccer lovers flock to spots like Santa Monica’s Britannia Pub.

Need gear or just wanna feel the culture? Swing by The Football Boutique in Downtown LA’s Fashion District for jerseys, streetwear, and community events. And after the game, keep the party going with Hollywood hotspots, Santa Monica Beach strolls, or street tacos in the Arts District - LA’s got it all.

The Road to 2026 - LA’s Biggest Soccer Party Yet

Mark your calendars, fam - June 2026 is when LA transforms into the ultimate soccer festival with the FIFA World Cup. The entire city will be lit with street cheering, live concerts, and cultural performances, turning every corner from Venice to DTLA into a celebration.

With eight games at SoFi Stadium and a global spotlight on LA, the Los Angeles Tourism Organization is rolling out campaigns to make sure the world knows we’re the place to be. Whether you’re a local or flying in from halfway across the globe, LA’s ready to show you why we’re the soccer capital of the West Coast - and beyond.