Hanwha Life Esports Triumphs at LCK Cup 2025, Secures International Spot

SEOUL, South Korea — Hanwha Life Esports made a stunning comeback during the LCK Cup 2025, defeating Gen.G Esports on February 23 in a gripping best-of-five matchup. The victory not only earned Hanwha Life the championship title but also secured their sole spot to represent Korea in the upcoming international League of Legends tournament, First Stand 2025.

The playoffs were a rollercoaster for Hanwha Life, which had faced setbacks in the group stage with losses to Dplus and Gen.G. However, the team shifted gears in the playoffs, eliminating T1 and avenging their previous defeats. Hanwha Life’s impressive performance showcased their ability to adapt and overcome adversity.

“LCK Cup 2025 is the first tournament after I changed the team. I thought it would be more difficult, but things went really well. I did not expect to win it at all,” said Hanwha Life player Zeus. “But here we are, holding the trophy. So, I’m really glad and happy. I want to keep this momentum going, and I wish we can win the First Stand as well.”

The grand final encapsulated strategy and tactical prowess, with both teams initially playing cautiously. Gen.G started with significant pressure, securing early kills and objectives. However, Hanwha Life quickly retaliated, managing to capitalize on Gen.G’s missteps and gain a substantial advantage throughout the series.

“Honestly, I did not see this 3:0 coming. Before the match, we were doubting whether we could win or not. I’m very glad we could get this clean 3:0,” Kiin of Gen.G noted in a post-match interview. “We played against each other so many times; we have a lot of information about each other, so I think drafting will be very important.”

The decisive Game 5 was marked by a series of cautious plays. Gen.G initially stumbled out of the gate but maintained composure, managing to accumulate dragons—only for Hanwha Life to overcome with strategic kills that allowed them to push into Gen.G’s base.

As the match neared its climax, Hanwha Life executed a strategic siege after acquiring crucial buffs, ultimately destroying Gen.G’s Nexus and clinching the championship title. This triumph marked a significant resurgence for Hanwha Life, which struggled in previous tournaments.

Their victory not only signifies their rise in the competitive League of Legends scene but also opens the door for them to compete against the best in the world at First Stand 2025, scheduled from March 10 to March 16. With only one spot available for Korean teams, the stakes could not be higher.

Both teams now turn their focus to future competitions, keeping an eye on qualifications for the next regional tournament. Hanwha Life’s victory is not just a win for them but a warning to the rest of the League of Legends world that they are a force to be reckoned with.