KT Rolster, who achieved a remarkable 17-game winning streak in the regular season of the 2023 LCK Summer Split, faced a disappointing defeat against Bilibili Gaming in their first match of the 2023 LoL World Championship. Following the loss, Gwak "Bdd" Bo-seong joined Inven Global for a brief interview and shared his thoughts.

You started Worlds with a regrettable loss. What are your thoughts?

We were well-prepared and I genuinely believed we could win, but the game didn't go as smoothly as our practices, and it felt rushed. So, I'm quite disappointed.

You utilized 15 champions in the spring season and 9 in the summer. Did the meta change significantly?

We mainly focused on strong champions. During the summer, there weren't many counter-picks available, so we opted to pick strong champions. This resulted in us using fewer champions compared to the spring. We had our tier list that way.

Azir and Taliyah seem to be emerging in the meta at Worlds. What are your thoughts on them? It seems that the meta is smiling towards you.

I'm aware that those champions are strong because I've practiced them a lot. I agree that I have a slight advantage since I played them so often.

There are three top-class Azir players: Bdd, Faker, and Chovy. But all three seem to have different styles. Can you highlight the differences?

I think we all have different perspectives on how to play Azir. For me and Faker, Azir is primarily used to set up opportunities for our teammates, while Chovy seems to prefer a frontline-like playstyle, engaging methodically. I learned a lot from watching them; from early-game laning to how I can utilize Azir more effectively.

KT had a fantastic year, with an exceptionally strong performance in the summer regular season. What's the secret?

First and foremost, the atmosphere was great. The positive atmosphere allowed for effective feedback, and as time passed, we began to sync better and communicate more. We had more discussions and improved in that aspect.

You got your first career victory with coach Supreme. Would you say that things get better when you play with him?

We were on the same team back in 2017-2018. Even now, he understands my playstyle and knows what I’m thinking. Through that, he provides valuable feedback, so it feels like we're in sync.

You’re doing much better than last year. What’s the biggest difference?

I believe the team play is more cohesive this year.

You previously mentioned having low confidence. Does the results improve your confidence?

Last year, our practice results weren't good, and we kept losing in official games too, which shook me up. This year, with more wins, my confidence has significantly improved.

You've had strong performances in 2018-2019 and are doing well this year. What's the difference?

During those years, I was still learning. I was able to feel myself improving every day. This year, I believe my skill level has risen further over the years. Now, I’m trying to hone my abilities little by little.

Last year, you faced ongoing slumps, whereas this year, you performed well but struggled in playoffs and critical matches. In your opinion, which is mentally tougher?

It would be better if we initially performed poorly and then improved as the season progressed. This season, we've done well throughout but faltered at the end. If I had to pick, I’d pick struggling during the season and improve as I progress.

Since 2019, it's almost the same LCK mid laners that reach Worlds. What do you think is the reason?

There isn't a significant reason; it's merely a result of the better players coming. Since strong players in other roles tend to gather around top-class mid laners, that’s most likely why that’s happening.

Are there any mid laners you’d like to face at this Worlds?

I think it’ll be fun to face JDG knight.

Up to now, your best run at Worlds was the semifinals. How are your expectations this Worlds?

It’s really regretful that we lost the first game, but we still have more to go, and with the new Swiss Stage format, it might be better to play more games. I’ll put in more effort to ensure that we move forward as we progress.