Korean import 'Zest' Kim Dong-min, currently playing for CBLOL's (Brazil) top seed LOS, shared his thoughts on facing T1 and his resolution for the tournament.
LOS suffered a heavy defeat against T1 in their opening Swiss Stage match of the 2026 LoL World Championship (Worlds), held at the Credit Union of Texas Event Center in Allen, Texas. While a tough match was expected, the regret remained as the team felt they were unable to show their own style of play even less than anticipated.
Q. How did it feel to face a powerhouse like T1?
It's my first Worlds, and we ended up playing T1. I felt it was a huge honor and a great opportunity, but it's disappointing that the match ended so quickly before I could even take it all in.
Q. You might not be as well known back home in Korea. Could you briefly introduce yourself and your team?
I'm a top laner in the CBLOL. I believe our team excels in the laning phase and likes to snowball from there.
Q. You went for a 1v1 right when you hit Level 6 and ended up giving away First Blood. That moment must have been particularly frustrating?
I don't know if it was nerves, but I think I got overly excited. I could have just burned their Flash off their mistake, but I got greedy for a solo kill and ended up dying instead.
Q. From the mid game onward, the game tilted heavily against you. What was the most disappointing part?
We rarely collapse in the laning phase, but I broke down on my own. The fact that the game unfolded that way is what bothers me the most.
Q. What do you want to show and gain through this Worlds?
Although we are the only team remaining from the CBLOL and are considered an underdog, there are still many matches left. I want to showcase our strengths and play against as many teams as possible.
Q. You've been playing overseas for quite a while now. Do you feel it suits you well?
Living in Korea was fine too, but personally I have a bit of a strong personality. Treating head coaches and coaches like friends overseas seems to fit me better.
Q. What are your future goals?
While playing abroad has its challenges, things are going well this year. My skill level is improving a lot, so my goal is to keep showing better performances and reach bigger stages. I'll continue working hard to put on a great performance moving forward.
