KT Rolster released an interview with Yeon Je-gil, gold medalist in the fighting games category at the 2026 Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games. Yeon shared his experience overcoming critical moments in the finals, expressed gratitude to his teammates and family, and laid out his new goal of qualifying for Capcom Cup.
Yeon Je-gil competed as South Korea's Street Fighter 6 representative in the fighting games category and won the gold medal. He cited the moment he lost a set in the finals that he felt he should have won as his biggest crisis. He reflected that thanks to teammate Lee Gwang-no holding the line during that crisis, he was able to compose himself and refocus on his own match.
Joining KT Rolster also bolstered his preparation process. He analyzed replays with fellow teammate 'JPKing' Kim Seong-jun and received practical advice from 'NL' and 'SsireumMan' Kim Jong-jin. Yeon set winning World Warrior Korea and qualifying for Capcom Cup as his next targets.
How did you feel when you heard the national anthem on the podium?
"It was a scene I had only ever watched on TV, so standing there myself and hearing the national anthem was deeply moving. First and foremost, I want to dedicate this glory to the players who helped as my sparring partners, my teammate 'JPKing' Kim Seong-jun who brainstormed with me, and my wife, who helped me stand where I am today.
What was the most memorable moment or the biggest crisis for you in this tournament?
"The biggest crisis was during the finals when I disappointingly dropped a set that I could have won. It was a situation I could have taken comfortably if I had stayed calm, which made it all the more regretful. However, thanks to Lee Gwang-no holding strong through the critical moment, we overcame a major hurdle, and I was able to recover mentally and deliver a good result.
How did you manage your mindset amidst the one-sided cheering from the Japanese crowd?
"The noise isolation on the headsets worn in the venue was good, so I couldn't hear the crowd or noise very loudly. Rather than dwelling on the home-crowd atmosphere supporting the opponent, I focused on believing in my own play. Personally, I enjoy playing the party pooper in someone else's territory, so that actually helped me play with a relaxed mind.
What impact do you hope this gold medal will have on the Korean fighting game community?
"I hope this serves as an opportunity not only for younger audiences but also for players in their 30s and 40s like me to watch my matches and enjoy fighting games more.
Did being selected for the national team while under KT Rolster help with your training and preparation?
"Having my teammate 'JPKing' Kim Seong-jun review replays with me and give detailed feedback was a huge help. Also, 'NL' and 'SsireumMan' Kim Jong-jin visited the KT practice room to train with us, which was extremely beneficial. In particular, whenever things weren't going my way and I felt rushed, remembering their advice to "take it slow" really helped me stay calm.
What is your next goal now that the Asian Games are over?
"I am happy to have achieved my biggest goal of the year, which was winning the Nagoya Asian Games. My next goal is to win the ongoing World Warrior Korea tournament and qualify for Capcom Cup.
Finally, is there anything you would like to say to your family?
"I want to express my deepest gratitude to my wife for supporting me at my side so I could focus solely on practice with peace of mind. I would also like to extend my sincere thanks to my sister-in-law, brother-in-law, and mother-in-law for supporting me in every way possible.
