SK Telecom T1 release more than half of League roster

SK Telecom T1 has initiated one of the most dramatic roster transformations in esports history, parting ways with seven professional players from their League of Legends division. This sweeping change impacts over two-thirds of their competitive lineup and signals a complete strategic reset for the legendary organization.

Following what analysts describe as the most disappointing competitive year in SKT’s prestigious history, management opted for radical restructuring measures. The organization terminated contracts with seven out of ten players under agreement, with the most shocking development being the exit of veteran bottom lane partners Bang and Wolf. These two competitors had become emblematic figures representing SKT’s championship legacy and organizational identity.

The departure of Bang and Wolf marks the conclusion of an extraordinary five-year partnership that began when both joined SKT in 2013. Throughout their tenure, this bot lane combination established itself as one of the most formidable duos in competitive League of Legends history. Their synchronized playstyle and championship experience became defining characteristics of SKT’s dominant eras.

During the 2018 season, SKT introduced Lee “Effort” Sang-ho as their new primary support player. This roster adjustment prompted Wolf to transition into a substitute role after experimenting briefly as a jungler during the spring split. This positional flexibility demonstrated Wolf’s commitment to the organization despite changing competitive circumstances.

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The comprehensive roster purge extends beyond the iconic bot lane to include five additional players: top laners Park “Thal” Kwon-hyuk and Park “Untara” Ui-jin, junglers Kang “Blank” Sun-gu and Park “Blossom” Beom-chan, and mid laner Choi “Pirean” Jun-sik. Each brought distinct strengths and challenges to the organization during their respective tenures.

Blank originally joined SKT in 2015 and eventually rotated jungle duties with renowned player Han “Peanut” Wang-ho. Following Peanut’s departure from the squad, Blank ascended to the starting jungler position. His fluctuating performance levels frequently drew criticism from the passionate SKT fanbase, particularly during high-stakes international competitions.

Untara was initially positioned as the strategic replacement for Heo “Huni” Seung-hoon in the critical top lane role. He debuted as a promising top lane prospect but was ultimately superseded by Thal, who joined in 2018 as part of SKT’s ambitious ten-player roster experiment.

Pirean received limited competitive exposure in the mid lane, an expected situation given his position as backup to the legendary Lee “Faker” Sang-hyeok. Blossom also joined in 2018 and saw minimal playing time on the competitive stage. During his abbreviated stint with the organization, Blossom developed recognition for his unconventional and highly aggressive jungle approach.

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All seven released competitors now enter the free agent marketplace seeking new organizational homes. From the original ten-player roster configuration, only three individuals retain their positions: mid lane superstar Faker, support player Effort, and Han “Leo” Gyeo-re. This minimal retention rate underscores the comprehensive nature of SKT’s competitive rebuild strategy.

The retention of Faker provides SKT with a foundational pillar around which to construct their renewed competitive identity. His unparalleled experience and mechanical prowess offer stability during this transitional phase.

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This unprecedented roster overhaul represents more than mere player transactions—it signifies a fundamental philosophical shift within one of esports’ most successful organizations. The decision to part with established veterans signals SKT’s commitment to developing a new competitive identity.

Common mistakes organizations make during rebuilds include rushing roster decisions and undervaluing team chemistry. Successful transitions typically require 6-12 months for new player integrations and strategic systems implementation.

Advanced optimization for roster management involves balancing experienced veterans with developing talent, creating mentorship pipelines, and establishing clear performance metrics. Organizations should anticipate initial competitive setbacks during transition periods while focusing on long-term development goals.

The released players now face critical career decisions in free agency. Their individual market values will be determined by recent performance, championship experience, and perceived fit within prospective team systems.

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