Hanwha Life Esports

Foundation

Hanwha Life Esports was founded in November 2014 under the name ROX Tigers by the Chinese social networking site YY. This initiative was part of YY's strategy to promote their streaming platform, HUYA.com, in South Korea. The organization quickly gained recognition in the esports community for its talented roster. In mid-2018, Hanwha Life Insurance acquired the team and its LCK spot, rebranding it as Hanwha Life Esports. This acquisition marked a significant transition for the organization, allowing it to compete at the highest level in League of Legends.

History

The team's early years were marked by rapid growth and competitive success. As ROX Tigers, the team achieved notable victories, including winning the 2016 Summer LCK playoffs, which secured their first LCK title. In 2016, they also reached the semifinals of the World Championship, finishing third after losing a close series to SK Telecom T1, with a score of 2–3. In 2015, competing as KOO Tigers, they made a remarkable run in the World Championship, finishing as runners-up after defeating KT Rolster and Fnatic in the knockout stage, but ultimately falling to SK Telecom T1 in the finals held in Berlin, Germany. After the acquisition by Hanwha Life Insurance in 2018, the team continued to evolve, adapting to changes in the competitive landscape while maintaining its reputation for skilled gameplay.

Achievements

Hanwha Life Esports has a storied history of accomplishments in professional esports. The team won the LCK Summer playoffs in 2016, marking their first championship title in the league. In the 2015 League of Legends World Championship, as KOO Tigers, they finished as runners-up, solidifying their position among the elite teams in the world. The team has consistently qualified for the LCK playoffs, showcasing their competitive prowess. Additionally, they have produced several standout players who have gone on to achieve individual accolades within the esports community. Their participation in both League of Legends and Kart Rider has further diversified their competitive portfolio.

Legacy

Hanwha Life Esports has made a significant impact on the esports industry in South Korea and beyond. The organization's successful transition from ROX Tigers to Hanwha Life Esports exemplifies the growing influence of corporate sponsorship in esports. By investing in competitive teams, Hanwha Life Insurance has helped elevate the profile of esports in South Korea, attracting a larger audience and increasing viewership. The team has fostered a strong community of fans, contributing to the overall growth of the esports ecosystem. Their strategic gameplay and dedication to excellence have inspired new players and organizations within the esports scene, establishing a legacy of competitiveness and professionalism.

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