In the 2023 season, KT Rolster’s top laner, Kim “Kiin” Gi-in, and his team dominated LCK Summer, earning a crucial spot at Worlds.
Kiin’s rise to fame began humbly. In LCK Summer 2017, while playing for Ever8 Winners, they finished last in the league. However, his potential was recognized by Afreeca Freecs (now Kwangdong Freecs), leading to a pivotal transition that set the stage for his explosive career. With the Freecs, he finished second in LCK Spring 2018 and secured a coveted spot at Worlds for the first time ever.
In an exclusive interview with ONE Esports, Kiin shares the pivotal moments that shaped his remarkable ascent.
Kiin’s Introduction to Professional Gaming
During his high school years, Kiin discovered his love for League of Legends and started playing it for fun. His involvement in the LoL community eventually led to an unexpected opportunity when a team was looking for players to join their academy teams. Encouraged by his friends, Kiin decided to give it a shot, even though he had initially planned to enter the workforce after completing his education.
Fate intervened when his team encountered difficulties, and Kiin was suddenly placed into the main team, marking the turning point of his debut. This unexpected elevation to the main league proved to be a stroke of luck for Kiin.
Challenges and Support
Despite his lucky breaks, Kiin faced challenges when it came to gaining parental approval for a career in professional gaming. Initially, his parents had reservations, but as his career blossomed and his team achieved higher rankings, their support gradually grew. It wasn’t until his team secured second and third places and qualified for Worlds that his parents started to become supportive.
Life Beyond Gaming
Outside of intense competition, Kiin finds relaxation in playing other popular games during his leisure time. He enjoys games like Lost Ark and MapleStory. Additionally, he likes to go out and indulge in delicious food, although he wouldn’t consider himself a foodie.
Looking ahead, Kiin acknowledges that he will have to fulfill the obligatory military service in South Korea. After that, he sees himself continuing in gaming, possibly as a streamer. However, he doesn’t envision becoming a coach, as teaching is not his style.
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Source: ONEESPORTS
