VANCOUVER, BC – Vancouver Whitecaps FC confirmed on Thursday that defender Young-Pyo Lee will return for the 2013 Major League Soccer (MLS) season.

Lee, 35, was one of eight Whitecaps FC players to have his contract option exercised for the 2013 season and has decided that he will continue playing for another year.

“We’re thrilled that Lee has decided to return for a second season in Vancouver,” said Whitecaps FC head coach Martin Rennie. “He was a cornerstone of our backline last year and a leader on the squad. Not only does he bring world-class talent, but also a wealth of experience that will continue to benefit his teammates.”

In his first season in Vancouver, the South Korean legend finished fifth in MLS with a total of 2,970 minutes played. In total, Lee started and played the full 90 minutes in 33 out of a possible 34 regular season matches. Over the course of the season Lee recorded one goal and was third on the team with four assists. Additionally, Lee - who was named the club's 2012 Player of the Year - started and played the entire match in the club’s first ever MLS playoff appearance against LA Galaxy.