DWG KIA loses ShowMaker, Canyon, and BeryL to free agency

DWG KIA’s championship-winning lineup could undergo dramatic reconstruction for the 2022 competitive season following major free agency developments.

Fresh from their narrow defeat against EDward Gaming in the 2021 World Championship finals, DWG KIA’s star players Heo “ShowMaker” Su, Kim “Canyon” Geon-bu, and Cho “BeryL” Geon-hee have strategically allowed their contracts to lapse, opening the door to explore offseason opportunities across multiple regions. All three elite competitors now hold free agent status and can formally negotiate with interested organizations worldwide.

The pivotal contract expiration occurred on November 15, marking a critical juncture for the jungle, mid lane, and support players who formed the backbone of Damwon Gaming’s 2020 World Championship victory and subsequent back-to-back LCK split championships throughout 2021.

In an official organizational statement, DWG KIA leadership expressed that they “respect their decisions to test free agency” and “extend sincere appreciation for their contributions,” while simultaneously offering hope to loyal fans by confirming the team “will maintain ongoing dialogue with the players in pursuit of new contractual agreements.”

Although the trio currently operates without formal DWG KIA affiliation, the organization retains exclusive re-signing privileges. However, they must present compelling offers that surpass competing bids from rival LCK squads, alongside anticipated interest from LPL franchises and LCS organizations seeking to import top-tier Korean talent.

Despite DWG KIA establishing itself as Korea’s dominant League of Legends franchise over the past twenty-four months, the organization’s stability hasn’t matched its competitive achievements. Following their Summoner’s Cup triumph in 2020, top lane specialist Jang “Nuguri” Ha-gwon exited the organization and currently competes with FunPlus Phoenix in the LPL.

The current situation reflects a recurring pattern for successful Korean esports organizations, where championship victories often trigger roster volatility due to increased player market value and international interest. Teams must balance financial constraints against competitive ambitions when negotiating with proven winners.

Industry analysts suggest ShowMaker and Canyon represent particularly valuable assets, given their consistent elite performance across multiple international tournaments. Support player BeryL’s unique champion pool and strategic innovations make him another highly sought-after free agent.

Hanwha Life’s Chovy, Deft join DWG Kia players in free agency

DWG KIA doesn’t stand alone in confronting roster uncertainty, as Hanwha Life Esports’ mid lane prodigy Jeong “Chovy” Ji-hoon and veteran bottom laner Kim “Deft” Hyuk-kyu have also reached contract expiration dates.

Hanwha management continues active negotiations with their franchise cornerstones aiming to secure their services for the upcoming season, though they potentially face more complex retention challenges than DWG KIA. Despite fielding two superstar talents throughout the season, the squad couldn’t match the championship achievements of their domestic rivals.

The organization nevertheless delivered a respectable competitive campaign that culminated in a Worlds 2021 playoff appearance. Retaining Chovy represents a particular priority, given his status as one of the most mechanically gifted mid laners globally, while Deft brings invaluable veteran leadership and consistent performance.

No reproduction without permission：Game Guides Online » DWG KIA loses ShowMaker, Canyon, and BeryL to free agency DWG KIA's championship roster faces major free agency shakeup as ShowMaker, Canyon, and BeryL explore new opportunities