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Kang “TheShy” Seung-lok, renowned top laner for Weibo Gaming (WBG), has delivered a significant blow to the team by announcing his decision to take a break and not participate in the upcoming 2024 League of Legends Pro League (LPL) Spring Split.
This decision comes on the heels of WBG’s impressive runner-up finish at Worlds 2023, where TheShy played a pivotal role in their journey to the Grand Final.
[Official] WBG announce the departure of TheShy.#LPL #WBGWIN pic.twitter.com/OZVK3e4EH2
— LPL Fanclub (@LPLfanclub) December 11, 2023
In a recent post on his Weibo account, TheShy explained his choice, expressing disappointment in the end results despite his two-year stint with WBG.
Having debuted in the LPL in 2017 with Invictus Gaming, TheShy quickly gained recognition for his innovative champion picks, culminating in a World Championship title in 2018.
However, by 2023, his reputation had undergone a transformation, marked by inconsistent performances and poor statistical showings.
Entering Worlds 2023 with low expectations, TheShy surprised many by regaining his form during the semi-finals against Bilibili Gaming (BLG).
Although the final against T1 ended somewhat disappointingly, TheShy managed to reaffirm himself as a powerhouse talent in the LPL.
Despite this resurgence, TheShy has opted for a break ahead of the 2024 LPL Spring Split, citing dissatisfaction with the achieved results and a desire to reset mentally and physically.
His hiatus follows the loss in the World Championship, dashing his hopes of securing a second world title.
In a heartfelt message to his fans on Weibo, TheShy expressed gratitude to WBG and apologized for what he perceived as a subpar performance.
He emphasized the need to take a break for both physical and mental adjustment, leaving the possibility open for a return in the summer split.
With TheShy no longer part of the roster, WBG faces the challenge of finding a new top laner for the upcoming season.
Additionally, rumours suggest that Wei “Weiwei” Bohan may join LNG Esports, further thinning Weibo’s roster.
While Li “Xiaohao” Yuanhao is speculated to be the new jungler, the vacant spot left by TheShy remains uncertain, leaving fans and analysts eager to see who will fill this crucial position.
