Krafton has permanently banned 'Himass' and 'TanVuu' for using other participants' streams and external information during 'PUBG Asia Stars 2026'. It also separately apologized to streamer Soopi, who suffered harm during the tournament's management and response process, promising protection and support for legal action.
On September 23, Krafton announced that following a comprehensive investigation of official broadcasts, participant videos, in-game data, and replays, it confirmed both players' use of external information and stream sniping. Krafton explained that the two players obtained information that would be difficult to discern through normal match play alone and used it for decision-making and tactics.
The 'PUBG: BATTLEGROUNDS' game accounts of 'Himass' from 'Anyone's Legend' and 'TanVuu' from 'The Expendables' have been permanently banned. Their eligibility to compete in all official esports tournaments organized or sanctioned by Krafton, including PGC, PGS, and PNC, has also been permanently revoked. The two players may offer an explanation through designated procedures.
Krafton applied provisions regarding game disruption, prohibition of harassment, and abusing from its operating policy to the infraction. The publisher emphasized that regardless of the event's nature, prize pool size, or roster composition, it has never officially permitted watching other participants' broadcasts or utilizing external information during a match. Krafton added that regarding similar allegations raised against other participants, it found no circumstances requiring additional sanctions.
Apart from sanctioning the players, Krafton also acknowledged operational responsibility. It explained that failure to provide guidance and measures based on principles from the beginning caused confusion and conflict, and that it failed to adequately protect participants from criticism and attacks.
On the same day, Krafton issued a separate announcement offering an official apology to Soopi, who suffered the most damage during this process. Krafton stated that it requested the deletion and blocking of posts spreading false information, mockery, and illegal deepfakes, and will cooperate fully on legal action in consultation with Soopi's agency. It also plans to continue providing support for recovery and monitoring for further harm.
An internal review covering overall event operations, announcements, investigation, and decision-making processes is also underway. Depending on the results of the review, Krafton plans to prepare follow-up measures in accordance with internal regulations and implement preventive measures against recurrence.
