The Korean eSports Association (KeSPA) has unveiled its roster lists for the upcoming League of Legends Champions Korea Summer Split. Despite few surprises, one absent name from the KT Rolster roster has drawn attention.
Heo “PawN” Won-seok has been left off of the KT Rolster roster for the upcoming split. According to a tweet posted to KeSPA’s English Twitter account, PawN won’t feature in the mid lane in the first round of the Summer Split.
[2018 LoL Champions Korea Summer] @ktRolster_tw 1Round Roster #LCK pic.twitter.com/BchTXs7cay
— Korea e-Sports Association (KeSPA) (@KeSPAen) June 8, 2018
Instead, KT Rolster will turn to the up-and-coming Son “Ucal” Woo-hyeon.
Ucal has played second fiddle to PawN since May 2017, when he joined the KT Rolster ranks. However, he has seen his play time increase as PawN’s wellbeing deteriorated. After making numerous appearances in the LCK Spring Split, Ucal should be able to move into the starter position without causing too much disruption to the side.
The issue is believed to be a persistent back injury, as reported by Korean publication FOMOS. PawN has a history of back issues, dating back to his time with EDward Gaming in 2015. He missed a number of games while with the Chinese side to rest and recuperate.
Despite being left out this time, PawN is expected to return to the KT Rolster roster ahead of the second round of the split. As things stand, KT Rolster still holds ownership of the player.
About KT Rolster
KT Rolster roster is a professional or expert gaming organisation situated in South Korea.
Prior to rebuilding, the KT brand handled two sister teams in KT Rolster Arrows and KT Rolster Bullets.
KT Rolster initially started as a StarCraft: Brood War team in 1999. Upon its creation, the team was initially known as KTF n016 Progame Team. After numerous name changes, the organisation settled on KT Rolster.
The organisation has been competing in competitive League of Legends since 2012. It has since earned its place as one of the best sides in Korea.