The midfielder will join the club on July 1st after his contract expires at Swansea City, subject to receiving the appropriate visa.

The 29-year-old has signed an initial two-year deal and he becomes the Magpies’ second signing of the summer following the permanent arrival of Martin Dúbravka.

Manager Rafa Benítez said: "I’m pleased to welcome Ki to the club. He is a player with lots of Premier League and international experience and it was an easy decision to bring him here.

"He is the captain of his country, a good character and he will be a good addition to the squad."

Ki said: "I’m so pleased I can join the club. I was always pleasantly surprised when I came to St. James’ Park to play against Newcastle – there is a great atmosphere and the passion from the fans is a great support to the players.

"Everyone knows how big this club is so I’m really looking forward to playing with my teammates and for the fans."

Born in Gwangju and educated in Australia, Ki began his professional career with FC Seoul, where his performances attracted the attention of a host of overseas clubs.

He moved to Celtic during the winter of the 2009/10 season and would spend just over two-and-a-half years in Glasgow, culminating in a Scottish Premiership title shortly before a move to the Premier League with Swansea City in August 2012.

No stranger to the North East, Ki joined Sunderland on a season-long loan in August 2013 and helped the Black Cats to avoid relegation before returning to the Liberty Stadium.

Now Korea Republic captain, Ki has amassed 104 international caps - the tenth highest in the country’s history - and has scored ten goals for the Taegeuk Warriors.