Kim joined Daejeon Citizen in 2010 as one of the club's draft picks.[1] His first league appearance was on 28 August 2010, as a late substitute in Daejeon's home loss to Jeju United.[2] He remained with Daejeon for 2011 but had limited chances during the season, with his sole league appearance being in the heavy loss to the Pohang Steelers on 9 July 2011.[3] Before the 2012 K-League campaign, Daejeon declined to extend his contract.