In Suzhou, where the 2026 LPL Split 3 is currently underway, we caught up with head coach Son Dae-young. A first-generation figure who helped pioneer Korean League of Legends, Son previously led teams like MIG, Azubu Frost, and Blaze. Returning to the scene after a three-year hiatus following his time at Hanwha Life, Son is a veteran who has navigated the LPL stage as well, having coached teams like EDG and RNG in the past.

Regarding his return as head coach of IG after three years, Son explained, "I took a break due to health issues, but I had a strong desire to return to the field as a coach. Among the various teams, IG showed the most active interest, and I chose them because I wanted to work for a team that truly wanted me."

He expressed his delight and positive impressions of the LPL scene upon his return. "I was grateful that the LPL staff I've known for a long time welcomed me so warmly. I was impressed by the atmosphere, which still prioritizes connection with the fans, and the improved stadium facilities. In particular, it's very exciting to feel the fans' passion firsthand through the 'Rolling Roadshow' that travels to cities like Suzhou, Beijing, and Shenzhen."

When asked about the differences between the LCK and LPL that he observed during his three-year break, Son noted, "While the broad context—the LCK's suffocating macro play versus the LPL's fierce skirmishes—remains similar, the LPL still sees far more small and large-scale teamfights because they prioritize opening fights through split-second decisions, whereas the LCK prioritizes calculated engagements." He added with a laugh, "Personally, I prefer a style that seeks out fights rather than stable macro, so I find the LPL more entertaining to watch."

He identified 'teamwork' as the most important virtue in modern LoL esports. Due to the nature of the current meta, games can be overturned by a single teamfight, regardless of who is ahead. He analyzed that while basic laning strength is important, the coordination and synergy between teammates to win small skirmishes and teamfights are the keys to victory.

Head coach Son Dae-young, who has now become the oldest member of the coaching staff, shared that he finds himself learning a great deal from his younger colleagues these days. He expressed a sense of nostalgia while reflecting on his connection with coach Kwon 'Helper' Young-jae, whom he had personally scouted as a trainee during his time at CJ Entus.

"In the past, coaches often exerted strong control over the atmosphere, but I've learned a lot from watching how coach 'Helper' interacts with the players," Son said. "I am trying to change myself by watching how he understands and respects the players' feelings, and how he persists in persuading and helping them understand when their mindset needs to change."

He added, "Coach 'Helper' prepares so systematically and provides feedback with such intensity that he works without breaks. His quick calculation skills are also a huge help during the Fearless pick-ban phase. Coach Lee 'Fury' Jin-yong, who works with me, is also invaluable; his fluent Chinese and expertise in the bottom lane have made me realize the true worth of former pro players as coaches. We also have a Chinese coach named 'Chengz' who serves as our analyst, helping the team play more easily by analyzing pick-bans and opponents. He's a great help because he has strong analytical skills and is capable of coaching as well."

Reflecting on his reunion with Chinese players he worked with in the past, he shared mixed emotions. "Chinese players in the past were so aggressive they would fight if they even made eye contact, but these days they have become much more calculated to fit the meta," he observed. "Still, seeing players like 'Rookie', 'TheShy', and 'Meiko' reminds me of when I faced them as opponents. It’s bittersweet yet impressive to see them still competing as active players after all this time."

Finally, Son expressed his earnestness: "Please show a lot of interest in the LPL. I hope you will also support the IG team. I may have become the oldest coach in the scene, but I love this job so much. I still have an unfulfilled dream in my heart, and I want to keep challenging myself until I achieve it."