Hanwha Life Esports' first MSI appearance, 'Gumayusi' Lee Min-hyeong

A Shutout Victory in Just 84 Minutes, the First Win Launched from Daejeon

Hanwha Life Esports announced a pleasant start to the 2026 Mid-Season Invitational (MSI). This was a Round 1 upper bracket match of the Bracket Stage held at the Daejeon Convention Center Exhibition Hall 2 in Yuseong-gu, Daejeon, on the afternoon of the 3rd. The opponent was Team Secret Whales (TSW).

Hanwha Life Esports secured a complete 3-0 victory, not dropping a single set. The total time taken to play the three games was 84 minutes and 41 seconds. They built momentum by finishing their first tournament match with a shutout.

This tournament is even more special for Hanwha Life Esports, as it marks the team's first time stepping onto the MSI stage. In particular, the players' mindset was unique given that Daejeon, where this match was held, is the home base and has deep roots with the parent company, Hanwha Group.

Hanwha Group and Daejeon share a deep connection not only economically but also culturally. From companies like Hanwha Aerospace, which leads the defense and aerospace industries, to the professional baseball team Hanwha Eagles, Hanwha Group maintains a close relationship through Daejeon. This is why 'Gumayusi' Lee Min-hyeong, who donned a new uniform this year, has such a special determination for the MSI held in Daejeon.

“I won't dwell on past results”... Lee Min-hyeong's determination toward the championship

After finishing the first match 3-0, Lee Min-hyeong showed both the joy of victory and cool self-objectification. He shared his thoughts, saying, “Since the matches are played in a best-of-five format, I thought managing physical condition would be important,” and “I am happy to have quickly won the first match 3-0.”

The fact that this is the first international tournament with a new team brought Lee Min-hyeong both excitement and a sense of responsibility. He clearly stated his goal: “Hanwha Life Esports has qualified for MSI for the first time, and I also have high expectations for my first international tournament with a new team. I definitely want to win.”

His will not to stay stuck in past records was also strong. Lee Min-hyeong emphasized, “I don't want to dwell on the results achieved in previous MSIs. I am running while thinking only of this tournament.”

“There are many strong teams”... A cautious attitude without arrogance

There was no sign of arrogance fueled by victory. Lee Min-hyeong answered cautiously regarding the tournament preparation process and current performance. He said, “We have only played our first match. I think there are many strong teams participating in this tournament.”

He also pushed himself regarding his own condition. His judgment was, “I don't think our performance has fully peaked yet.”

While his goal is the championship, he showed an attitude of focusing on every moment rather than being certain of the results. Lee Min-hyeong added, “The goal is to win, but it is not easy to predict to what extent we will achieve. I will do my best in every match during the tournament.”

He also steeled his resolve for the stronger opponents he will face in the future. Lee Min-hyeong said, “I am happy to have won the first match 3-0. We have matches against stronger opponents ahead, and I will show a good performance in the upcoming matches as well. I will work hard.”

“I know the expectations in Daejeon, I will show an even better side”

Lee Min-hyeong revealed a special mindset by mentioning the relationship between the parent company Hanwha Group and the home city of Daejeon. He said, “I know that Hanwha Group has a deep connection with Daejeon. Naturally, I am aware of the expectations the name 'Hanwha' holds in Daejeon, so I want to show an even better side.”