AirAsia signs on football icon Park Ji-sung as global ambassador

AirAsia Bhd has signed on South Korean and former Manchester United football icon Park Ji-sung as its new global ambassador.

The announcement on the signing was made by the low-cost carrier's Group Chief Executive Officer, Tan Sri Tony Fernandes here today.

As an ambassador, Park would be featured in AirAsia's upcoming global campaigns as well as make event appearances across the region.

The one-year partnership was celebrated with the launch of an Airbus A330 aircraft livery featuring the football star and which started operations yesterday.

The Airbus A330 will fly throughout AirAsia X's network in Malaysia, Korea, Japan, Australia, China, Taiwan, Sri Lanka and Saudi Arabia.

"It is great to work with Fernandes. His philosophy and the Airasia brand is something that I highly resonate with," Park told a press conference after the appointment here today.

When asked if the partnership also means working on programmes to nurture young talent in the region, he said there was no specific plan for this as yet, but he was willing to do so.

"In the summer, a children's soccer tournament was held and there was participation from Japan, China, Thailand and Malaysia. I believe similar tournaments can take place in the future," he said.

Park is the first Asian footballer to have won an UEFA Champions League trophy. He is also the first to have featured in an UEFA Champions League Final.

His talent was recognised by English Premier League club side Manchester United Manager, Sir Alex Ferguson. He played for the club from 2005 until 2012, before joining Queens Park Rangers owned by Fernandes.

It was during his tenure with Manchester United that Park also lifted the FIFA Club World Cup trophy.

Meanwhile, AirAsia today launched a limited free seats promotion for all direct flights from Korea, excluding airport tax, fuel surcharge and other applicable fees.

The free seats booking starts at 4 pm today.