Choi “Zeus” Woo-je, widely regarded as one of the top players in the world, has decided to part ways with T1.
His replacement is none other than Choi “Doran” Hyeon-joon, the 24-year-old top laner previously with Hanwha Life Esports (HLE).
Zeus’ departure marks the end of a dominant era.
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LCK ?? ‘Zeus’ ??? ???? ??? ???????.
?? ??? ???? ‘Zeus’ ???? ??? ??? ???, ???? ??? ???????.Today, we part ways with 'Zeus'.
We truly thank him for all that he has accomplished at T1 and wish… pic.twitter.com/RrE0JmvrMm— T1 LoL (@T1LoL) November 19, 2024
The ZOFGK roster made history by becoming the first team to secure consecutive LoL Worlds titles, alongside consistent League of Legends Champions Korea (LCK) performances and a perfect split in 2022.
Despite only one domestic championship, this lineup reached the World Championship finals three times in three years, lifting the Summoner’s Cup twice.
Doran, by contrast, brings a wealth of domestic success.
Since 2022, he has appeared in five out of six LCK Finals, winning four, including the 2024 summer split with HLE.
Known for his team-oriented playstyle, Doran led LCK top laners in assists during the summer playoffs, cementing his reputation as a reliable and adaptable player.
Yet, his Worlds track record pales in comparison to Zeus, having never advanced past the semifinals in four attempts.
Doran joins T1 under significant pressure to fill the void left by Zeus, a top laner celebrated for his mechanical prowess and game-changing impact.
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Please support him as the new top laner for T1 and help him shine even brighter at T1! pic.twitter.com/GztXjUdbQM— T1 LoL (@T1LoL) November 19, 2024
While Doran offers consistency and experience, his addition signals a potential shift in T1’s playstyle as they adapt to a less carry-focused top-lane presence.
The core of T1 remains intact, with Lee “Faker” Sang-hyeok, Mun “Oner” Hyeon-jun, Lee “Gumayusi” Min-hyung, and Ryu “Keria” Min-seok re-signing for the 2025 season.
The organisation aims to sustain its domestic and international dominance, with Doran completing the roster.
The team will soon test their synergy in upcoming competitions, including the Red Bull League of Its Own show match.
In addition to Zeus, T1 has also parted ways with coach Lee “GBM” Chang-suk and Martin “Rekkles” Larsson, who is joining Marc “Caedrel” Lamont’s new team Los Ratones.
Kim “Roach” Kang-hui, another coach, has stepped down to fulfil mandatory military service.
While the ZOFGK era concludes, its legacy is cemented as one of the greatest in League of Legends history.