BNK FEARX secured a 2-0 victory against Nongshim RedForce in the second round of the 2026 LCK regular season, held at LoL PARK in Jongno on the 16th. The match, which drew significant attention as a 'trade derby,' saw BNK FEARX clinch the win thanks to a standout performance by Kim 'Taeyoon' Tae-yoon, who had vowed to "show them what I'm capable of" ahead of the game.

Taeyoon appeared much more relaxed when he visited the press room that day. Having moved from Nongshim RedForce to BNK FEARX following a sudden trade, this was his first time facing his former team, making the victory all the more meaningful. His post-match celebration—tossing his old Nongshim RedForce jersey—perfectly captured his feelings.

Taking the microphone, Taeyoon revealed, "Throughout my pro career, I was never the type to think about celebrations. But since joining BNK FEARX, ideas just keep coming to me. I'd been thinking about this celebration for two days leading up to the Nongshim match, and I was determined to do it if we won."

It is understandable, as the Taeyoon we have known until now was neither an extroverted player nor one who enjoyed provocative performances. However, the trade instilled a new sense of drive in him. "It’s probably for the same reasons everyone is thinking," he explained. "At first, I didn't think much of it, but as the match against Nongshim approached, my desire not to lose grew stronger. And not wanting to lose is the same as wanting to win."

He continued, "As I mentioned in previous interviews, this was a trade I didn't want. I approached this match with the mindset of showing Nongshim exactly who they let go," reaffirming his firm resolve.

Nevertheless, it wasn't just pure joy. Having previously expressed gratitude and affection for his former teammates, Taeyoon said, "Of course, I felt good when we won. But seeing my former teammates, whom I lived with, made it a bit difficult to control my emotions for a moment. Still, I am happy that we won the match."

Finally, Taeyoon concluded the interview by addressing the fans: "Setting aside the narrative of the Nongshim match, we really needed this win because we are competing against teams with similar rankings, so I'm relieved we pulled it off. Our next opponent is Hanwha Life, and with many matches left in the season, I will prepare well. Thank you for your continued support."