KIWOOM DRX dismantles VALORANT roster following VCT Partnership exclusion

In a monumental shift for South Korean esports, KIWOOM DRX has officially parted ways with nearly its entire VALORANT competitive division. The sweeping roster overhaul comes directly in the wake of Riot Games' recent partnership overhaul, where KIWOOM DRX was not selected for the VCT 2027 Partnership Program.

End of an Era

Having been a cornerstone of global VALORANT esports since 2020—dating back to their dominant streak under Vision Strikers—KIWOOM DRX's exclusion from the partnership program marks the conclusion of their guaranteed tier-1 status.

Following discussions between management and players regarding the league's shift toward an open model system, all parties mutually agreed that releasing the roster into free agency was the most responsible forward path.

Sweeping Departures Across VCT Pacific and VCL Korea

The release affects both the top-tier VCT Pacific lineup and the developmental VCL Korea squad. From the VCT Pacific main roster, Kim "MaKo" Myeong-kwan, Kang "BeYN" Ha-bin, No "free1ng" Ha-jun, and Hyun-min "HYUNMIN" Song have all departed.

The organization also parted ways with head coach Pyeon "termi" Seon-ho and coach Kwon "Argency" Soon-woo, who spearheaded DRX's tactical identity since 2020. Termi has since signed with agency drip4ik to look for future endeavors in the scene.

In addition, DRX Academy players Park "Kyra" Jae-young, Lee "apeX" Chan-min, Krexx, and coach Jung "OD" Jin-myung were released.

On the VCT Pacific side, only players Kim "Yong" Ho-yong, Yoon "Flicker" Tae-hee, and coach Kim "glow" Min-soo remain with the organization.

Looking Toward an Open VCT 2027

Reflecting on his departure, six-year veteran MaKo expressed deep gratitude to DRX management, coaching staff, and loyal supporters. Meanwhile, departing players including HYUNMIN and free1ng have officially declared free agency to explore global offers.

Despite this historic setback, KIWOOM DRX affirmed its commitment to preparing for its next chapter in VALORANT esports under the upcoming VCT 2027 open circuit.

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Featured Image Source: Riot Games