On the 24th (KST), Hanwha Life Esports took down ESports Connected 2:0 in their round of 16 match of the ‘2019 League of Legends KeSPA Cup ULSAN’. Kim “Lava” Tae-hoon, originally the mid laner for HLE, role swapped to a bot laner and lead his team into a landslide victory with the champions, Miss Fortune and Cassiopeia.

The following is the post-match interview with the bot laner for HLE, Lava.

Congratulations on the victory. How does it feel to advance to the quarterfinals?

I really just want to play my next match, because there’s a lot more that I can show.

How would you rate your gameplay tonight?

I played pretty well in game 1, but I made a few mistakes in game 2, so I’m not too satisfied with it.

You played as a bot laner tonight. Will we continue to see you play as a bot laner?

Although it’s not fully confirmed that I’ll be switching to a full-time bot laner, I’m playing in the bot lane because my head coach told me to do so. I don’t know what his plans are, but personally, it’s pretty fun.

Role swapping isn’t an easy decision to make. Did you feel pressured at all?

I’ve already role swapped once, so rather than feeling pressured, I accepted it with optimism. The coaching staff put a lot of faith in me, so I’m really enjoying the experience.

Can you talk about your first bot lane partner, Son “Lehends” Si-woo?

When he was on Griffin, he was former partners with Viper, who is just an incredible bot laner. Compared to him, I’m still practicing and have a lot of flaws to overcome, but instead of harsh criticism, he always friendly and teaches me a lot. Not only is he a great person, he’s also great in practice, so I like everything about him. I’m very blessed to have him as my bot lane partner (laughter).

How’s living with your new teammates?

They’re all friendly and good people overall, so we all got close very quickly. CuVee always looks forward to meals, and after I heard about things here and there, I think our team’s food is the best.

What are your thoughts on your nickname, ‘Korean Perkz’?

It’s a nickname that doesn’t quite fit me just yet, so it’s a nickname that’s quite burdening. I hope I get called by that nickname when I play better later.

You’ve constantly been in the middle of the LCK standings, but this past year, you even dipped your toes into the relegations tournament. What are your thoughts on LCK in 2020?

From players to coaching staff, there were a lot of changes during the FA season. I believe that 2020 is the year where I’ll finally be able to go to playoffs and aim higher from there, so I’m very excited for it.

Lastly, what would you like to say to your fans?

I wish everyone a Merry Christmas, and I’ll make sure to win the next match as well.