Griffin adds Untara and Naehyun, rest of roster uncertain

Following extensive organizational turmoil and player controversies, Griffin has initiated its roster reconstruction process for the upcoming competitive season. The team’s announcement marks a pivotal moment in their efforts to stabilize the organization and rebuild competitive credibility.

Griffin demonstrates commitment to their announced rebuilding strategy by securing two experienced solo lane players for their starting lineup. These strategic additions include ex-T1 top lane specialist Park “Untara” Ui-jin and former DragonX mid lane veteran Yoo “Naehyun” Nae-hyun, both bringing international competitive experience to the roster.

Strategic Solo Lane Reinforcements

Untara returns to the LCK competitive landscape following a competitive stint with 1907 Fenerbahçe Esports in Turkey’s TCL league. The Turkish organization underwent complete roster dissolution after failing to secure qualification for the 2019 League World Championship, creating this recruitment opportunity. His reintegration into Korea’s elite competitive circuit with a traditionally strong organization represents a strategic career rehabilitation move.

Naehyun departs from DragonX after serving as their primary mid laner throughout the previous competitive year. He fills the roster vacancy created by mid lane phenomenon Jeong “Chovy” Ji-hoon’s transition to DragonX. While not known for spectacular playmaking, Naehyun delivers consistent performance and should provide reliable carry potential for the reformed squad. The mid laner possesses valuable competitive experience across multiple regions including European and Turkish leagues.

Griffin further strengthened their organizational foundation by appointing former Jin Air Green Wings head coach Han “H Dragon” Sang-yong to their coaching staff. H Dragon introduces a distinctly different coaching methodology compared to Griffin’s previous regime, emphasizing veteran leadership principles and extensive experience managing teams through competitive adversity. This coaching philosophy shift aligns with the team’s broader strategic redirection toward stability and experienced leadership.

While these acquisitions represent positive initial steps, Griffin’s complete roster composition remains substantially unresolved. The organization continues under formal investigation by Riot Games while implementing significant leadership structural changes. Contract regulation violations necessitated the release of several key players, including Chovy’s official signing with DragonX and support specialist Son “Lehends” Si-woo’s recent contract with Hanwha Life Esports.

Bot lane specialist Park “Viper” Do-hyeon, jungle main Lee “Tarzan” Seung-yong, and top laner Choi “Sword” Sung-won maintain active contracts with the organization. Untara’s recruitment potentially signals Sword’s impending departure from the team structure. The competitive futures of Viper and Tarzan with Griffin remain ambiguous, with potential transitions to other LCK organizations still under consideration.

The approaching year-end creates additional pressure, as most competing organizations have finalized their competitive rosters for the upcoming season, limiting available options for Griffin’s continued rebuilding efforts.

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