In a heartwarming story that proves football truly knows no borders, a community-owned club in the West Midlands has won the heart—and investment—of a supporter from halfway across the world.
Bilston Town FC launched their fan ownership scheme in December 2024, offering supporters the chance to become part-owners of the club. The response has been remarkable, with nearly 200 membership packages sold. But one investor stood out: Gee Syub Kim, a South Korean football fan who was so inspired by an article about the scheme that he flew to the UK for a personal visit.
Gee, who studied tourism at South and City College Birmingham and lived in the UK for 13 years before returning to South Korea in 2013, is no stranger to English football. A Liverpool fan, he travels to the UK every year to watch Premier League action and even sponsors non-league side Guiseley. But his trip to Bilston was something special.
"Non-league football is very different from the Premier League," Gee said after his tour of the stadium. "It was another good experience, and everyone at Bilston was very kind." He invested £100 in the share scheme and promised to follow the club's fortunes from back home.
Club membership secretary Adam Balfour rolled out the red carpet for their international fan. Gee met the club chairman and captain, received a signed shirt and other merchandise, and was treated to a local delicacy—orange battered chips—before continuing his West Midlands tour with a visit to Wolverhampton Wanderers.
Bilston's fan ownership model is clearly catching on beyond the UK. The club has also fielded interest from Spain and the USA, proving that community football can attract global attention. "Anything like this is great for the football club," Balfour said. "It helps spread the word about what we're building here."
Gee, who said he might return to watch a Bilston game on his next UK visit, is a shining example of how grassroots football can build bridges across continents. For a community club, that kind of connection is priceless.