The Shocking Transfer of Gumayusi to T1: The Real Reason Behind the World Cup MVP Choosing Hanwha Life

Shocking Transfer Announcement: Gumayusi Leaves the Throne

On November 17, 2025, a piece of news shook the hearts of League of Legends fans worldwide. The official announcement declared that T1's ace AD carry, "Gumayusi" (Lee Min-hyeong), was leaving the team. What made this news even more shocking was the timing—just days after T1's historic third consecutive World Championship win, and immediately following Gumayusi’s MVP award at the 2025 World Championship finals.

Farewell Message from T1’s Official Channel

T1 posted a farewell video titled "THANK YOU, LEE 'GUMAYUSI' MIN-HYUNG" on their official YouTube channel, marking the end of a 7-year journey with him. This was more than a simple player transfer; it was the closing of an era. A player who achieved the highest honors with the best team had chosen a new challenge.

Why Now? The Unexpected Nature of Gumayusi’s Transfer

What made the choice even more intriguing was how unexpected it was. Many fans and experts anticipated Gumayusi would stay with T1 to chase yet another championship. He had the rare opportunity to play alongside the world’s best mid-laner, Faker, and an already proven bottom lane synergy with Keria.

Yet, Gumayusi chose differently. His decision to leave the top spot for a fresh challenge appeared to stem from motivations deeper than mere financial gain.

Gumayusi’s Transfer: Clash Between the System and Individual

At the end of 2024, Gumayusi signed a one-year short contract, stating his plan to "prove himself and re-sign under better conditions." By earning the MVP at the 2025 World Championship, he perfectly validated his value—not a coincidence, but a successfully executed strategy.

T1 undoubtedly offered him a long-term contract afterward. However, despite the best offer, he opted for a new environment. This indicates that Gumayusi valued "a new journey of proof" more than "the highest AD carry compensation."

His drive seemed rooted in wanting to prove his worth beyond a single team, questioning in his mind whether his success was purely personal skill or partly due to the system at T1.

The Start of a New Era

Gumayusi’s transfer goes beyond a simple job change—it’s a prime example of a pro gamer taking charge of his career path, signaling the maturation of the esports industry.

"My goal has never changed since I started as a pro gamer—to become the world’s best professional player. Now, I am leaving T1 to embark on a new journey of proof."

This statement captures the essence of Gumayusi’s transfer perfectly. For him, T1 was never the end of proof—it was just the starting point for a new chapter of validation.

The Journey of ThreeFit MVP: Gumayusi and Seven Years with T1

From his debut in 2018 to becoming the MVP of the 2025 World Championship, let's follow how Gumayusi became a core member of T1 and the brilliant legacy he left behind. As the news of Gumayusi's transfer shocks League of Legends fans worldwide, looking back on the seven-year history he built with T1 becomes an even more meaningful endeavor.

2.1. Joining in 2018: Launching a Pro Career at SKT T1

Gumayusi took his first step as a professional player by joining T1 (then SKT T1) in 2018. At that time, he was just one among countless rookies. However, training alongside veterans like Faker, Kanna, and Broxah within the T1 system, he gradually honed his skills. Although he didn't secure a starting spot initially, his persistent effort transformed him into a competitive ADC within the team.

What stands out is how he absorbed T1’s traditional ‘system perfection,’ progressively adapting to the team’s playing style. This reflected not only individual skill but also his ability to understand and embody the team philosophy that T1 values.

2.2. Bottom Duo with Keria: Rising as T1’s Offensive Core

In 2022, another turning point came for Gumayusi as his bottom lane partnership with Keria (Ryu Min-seok) crystallized. Their synergy was instantaneous. Keria's dazzling plays combined seamlessly with Gumayusi’s steady damage output, elevating T1’s offensive line to a whole new level.

Their outstanding performances played a crucial role in T1’s runner-up finish at the 2022 World Championship and back-to-back victories in 2023 and 2024. Gumayusi evolved beyond a mere damage dealer—he became a pivotal axis executing the team’s strategy.

2.3. The 2025 Season: Strength Found Amid Struggles

The 2025 season was a tough one for both Gumayusi and T1. Early in the season, Gumayusi faced the bitter taste of being demoted from the main roster—a huge challenge. Yet, this was where his true resilience emerged. He made the most of his time in the second squad.

After undergoing rehabilitation, Gumayusi returned to the first team with a transformed presence. At the 2025 League of Legends Asia Invitational (ASI), he led the team to their first-ever international title, signaling a powerful comeback. This was not just a personal revival, but the image of a warrior overcoming adversity.

2.4. 2025 LoL World Championship MVP: The Legend Complete

Then, in November 2025, Gumayusi delivered the ultimate moment on the greatest stage. His performance in the World Championship final was a masterpiece: flawless positioning, split-second decision-making, and unwavering mental strength—all in perfect harmony. The outcome was clear—Gumayusi won the World Championship MVP, and T1 made history by achieving a three-peat for the first time.

This moment marked the most glorious chapter of Gumayusi’s T1 career and simultaneously closed a significant page.

2.5. Strategic Choice: One-Year Contract and the Background of Gumayusi’s Transfer

An intriguing fact is that at the end of 2024, Gumayusi signed a one-year short-term contract. He declared, “I will prove myself and re-sign under better conditions.” This was not a gamble but a meticulously calculated strategic decision.

Winning the MVP at the 2025 World Championship demonstrated the success of this strategy. Now at peak value, Gumayusi was in a position to decide on his transfer. Although T1 offered a long-term deal, he chose a "new challenge." This was not a simple move but a professional’s choice to take control of his career path.

2.6. Changes in T1’s Performance: Constant Competition and Growth

Throughout seven years at T1, Gumayusi faced fierce competition from countless ADCs. Challenged by Impact, Dori, and other rookies, he constantly refined himself. Through this competition, he assimilated T1’s unique culture—a passion to be the best and relentless effort to maintain that position.

When offered a one-year contract at the end of 2024, he saw it as an opportunity. He judged 2025 as the stage to prove his worth—and he proved that judgment to be spot on.

2.7. The Legacy Left by Gumayusi: Imprinted in T1’s History

At the moment T1’s 2025 World Championship victory was secured, Gumayusi solidified his name permanently in T1’s history. The three-peat is more than just a statistic; it is the result of seven years of dedication, countless hours of practice, and unwavering trust in the team.

Though Gumayusi’s transfer will dissolve this glorious lineup, the records and experiences he created at T1 will remain an enduring asset. He is not just an ADC but a key player who led T1 to a historic three-peat, etching his name in League of Legends esports history.

Gumayusi’s journey with T1 has ended, but the legacy he leaves behind will live forever in fans’ memories. And now, he stands ready to forge another legend on a new stage.

3. The Hidden Background Behind Gumayusi's Transfer: Reasons Beyond Just Money

"My unwavering goal since I started as a pro gamer was to become the world's best." This single statement from Gumayusi explains why his decision after the 2025 World Championship was so shocking. How could the very player who achieved the historic feat of three consecutive championships with the best team and teammates choose a new challenge? Beneath this seemingly inexplicable decision lay profound personal desires and external pressures far beyond simple financial gain.

3.1. Personal Motivation: The Desire for a New Challenge and the Conviction that Now Is the Right Time

Gumayusi had already voiced his wish to "try a different team for a new challenge" during a 2022 personal stream. Even while accomplishing great feats with T1, he expressed a thirst for different stages. So why now, not then? The answer lies in 'perfect timing.'

The timing of Gumayusi’s transfer was brilliantly planned. When signing a one-year contract at the end of 2024, he declared, "I will prove myself and renegotiate better terms." Despite an early 2025 season slump, he bounced back after rejoining the first team, winning the ASI championship and earning World Championship MVP, proving his strategy’s success. In other words, he embarked on his new challenge based on 'peak performance.' This wasn’t just leaving a team—it was a professional choice to prove himself on a new stage at his prime.

Notably, Gumayusi chose to transfer despite the fact that previous T1 bottom laners who left did not achieve strong results. This indicates his desire to prove his abilities in a new environment outweighed simply maintaining performance.

3.2. The Crushing Pressure of Fan Culture: The Hidden Weight of Unseen Burdens

One easily overlooked factor behind Gumayusi’s decision was the intense fan culture within the team and the pressure from extremist fans. After the legendary T1 top laner Zeus departed, Gumayusi became a frequent target of extremist fan attacks. Whenever the team faltered, his performance and specific champion choices came under fire, and some extremists even blamed him personally for T1’s failures.

Such an environment inevitably exerts psychological stress on a pro gamer. Balancing pride in playing for the best team with enduring harsh criticism from extremist fans creates dual burdens that can take a lasting toll on mental health. No matter how many World Championship MVPs he won, constantly facing extremist criticism during every match made seeking a new environment a means to find psychological stability.

Gumayusi’s transfer was likely not just a move to a new team but an escape from overwhelming fan pressure to an environment where he could focus purely on the game.

3.3. Family Factors: The Fate of an Esports Player and Personal Happiness

Frequently discussed in blogs and fan communities is the credible analysis that family factors played a role in Gumayusi’s transfer. The life of a pro gamer entails extremely intense training and nearly non-existent family time due to constant domestic and international competitions.

In this context, the transfer decision probably involved a family-wide discussion and consensus beyond the player’s individual choice. Gumayusi had already reached peak achievements and possessed the capacity to succeed in a new environment. Thus, at this point, prioritizing quality of life with family over team prestige or salary is a very plausible choice. This case shows that pro gamers are ultimately human beings, for whom personal happiness and family stability matter just as much as performance.

3.4. Breakdown in Contract Negotiations: A Firm Belief in Top-Tier Support as an ADC

Another key background element to Gumayusi’s transfer surfaced during contract negotiations with T1. According to analyses in the Inven community, Gumayusi seemed to have entered the process with the mindset, "If I’m not at the very top tier for ADC treatment from the start, I’ll consider transferring." This concept goes beyond just financial terms, including status within the team, trust from management, and dignity as a player.

Interestingly, reports indicate that the salary offered by T1 and Hanwha Life eSports were not vastly different. If Gumayusi had pursued purely monetary benefits, re-signing with T1 might have been an attractive option. Choosing to transfer despite this suggests he valued new challenges and change more than economic conditions.

Additionally, this demonstrates how Gumayusi had a clear understanding of his market value and a firm conviction to move teams if necessary to receive the treatment he deserved. This case clearly highlights that today’s pro gamers are not merely team players but strategic managers of their careers.

3.5. The Meaning Behind Choosing Hanwha Life: A New Stage for Challenges

Ultimately, Gumayusi’s transfer to Hanwha Life eSports was the convergence of all these factors. Hanwha Life likely offered something different from T1—new teammates, a fresh organizational culture, and improvements in personal conditions, including family considerations.

Competing with Hanwha Life, one of LCK’s strong teams, presents Gumayusi with an opportunity to prove he can succeed beyond T1. This move also symbolizes how the esports industry is maturing, creating environments where players can proactively design their careers.

Gumayusi’s transfer was neither sudden nor unpredictable. It was the perfect alignment of personal aspiration, external pressure, family considerations, and strategic calculation—a mature choice befitting a professional gamer.

T1’s Response and New Face: Signing Peyz and Future Strategy

As soon as the news of Gumayusi’s transfer broke, the first question esports fans asked was simple: “So, who will fill the AD carry spot on T1?” But T1’s answer had already been prepared. A new face to fill Gumayusi’s shoes had long been decided. Let’s take a closer look at how strategically T1 had planned for this situation.

Signing Peyz: The Rise of a New Generation ADC

Alongside the announcement of Gumayusi’s transfer, word quickly spread that Peyz (Kim Su-hwan) would be joining T1 as their new AD carry. This was no coincidence—it was a result of T1’s meticulous strategy.

Peyz is a promising ADC who made his mark at Gen.G, proving himself steadily throughout the 2025 season. Major esports outlets including SheeSports reported on his move to T1, confirming that this was not just a rumor but a done deal. This means T1 had anticipated Gumayusi’s departure well in advance.

This point is particularly fascinating. While many fans were still reeling from the shock of Gumayusi’s transfer, T1 had already secured his replacement. This proactive response perfectly reflects T1’s management philosophy that has steered the league alongside Faker.

Contract Extension with Doran: Securing Stability in the Top Lane

T1’s strategic response went beyond simply acquiring a new ADC. At the same time, they secured stability in their top lane by renewing the contract with Doran (Choi Hyun-joon).

Doran, a core player who has been with T1’s top lane for years, had his contract extended to minimize the loss of team strength following Gumayusi’s exit. His re-signing alongside Faker, who holds down the mid lane, sends a clear message that T1 will not be shaken by the loss of one player.

Through this move, T1 signaled to the market: “We remain a highly competitive team even after Gumayusi’s transfer.”

Emphasizing New Generation Development: A Long-Term Vision

The most striking aspect of T1’s response to Gumayusi’s departure is that it’s not merely about offsetting a loss—it’s about long-term restructuring.

Peyz is a younger rookie compared to Gumayusi. T1’s decision to bring him on board can be understood as a move not only to maintain team strength for the 2025-2026 season but also to prepare a new generation for the mid to long term. Historically, nurturing new talent alongside the legend Faker has been T1’s forte.

While Gumayusi’s transfer is a painful blow, it also opens up an opportunity for T1 to discover and develop their next-generation ADC. Should Peyz grow within the ranks of T1’s legends, he has the potential to become another world-class AD carry.

T1’s Management Philosophy: Prediction and Preparation

Among the lessons from Gumayusi’s transfer is T1’s exceptional management capability. They likely foresaw Gumayusi’s free agency ever since his one-year contract signed at the end of 2024. Fully aware that the League of Legends World Championship MVP might not stay with T1, they had already prepared countermeasures.

This demonstrates the key managerial virtues of ‘proactivity’ and ‘preparation.’ By minimizing chaos from Gumayusi’s departure, T1 has laid out a clear strategy to maintain team competitiveness steadily.

A New Lineup, A New Challenge

Ultimately, T1 steps into the new season with this lineup: Faker in the mid lane, Doran in the top lane, and Peyz as the AD carry. This signals that despite losing Gumayusi, T1 remains a formidable force.

With new face Peyz, T1 is ready to carve out another chapter in their history. This is the deeper meaning behind Gumayusi’s transfer—not an end, but a new beginning; not a loss, but a reconstruction filled with opportunity.

Changes in the eSports Market: The Domino Effect and New Competitive Landscape Triggered by Gumayusi's Transfer

What will be the shift in the LCK landscape sparked by Gumayusi's transfer? From Hanwha Life's rise to T1's resurgence, we explore the market impact this move is set to unleash.

The Catalyst of the 2025 Offseason: The Domino Effect of Gumayusi’s Transfer

Gumayusi's departure from T1 goes beyond a simple player move—it has triggered a chain reaction across the entire LCK transfer market. As a World Championship MVP and top-tier AD carry, his free agency forced all teams to completely rethink their recruitment strategies. The moment his transfer was officially announced, other LCK teams accelerated their efforts to secure desired players, making the 2025 offseason one of the most dynamic transfer periods in history.

What’s particularly striking is that this shift isn’t just about the top teams. With Hanwha Life’s announcement of signing Gumayusi, mid-tier teams also felt the pressure to bolster their rosters, sparking a revitalization throughout the entire LCK ecosystem. This reflects a healthy sign of maturation in the pro gamer labor market.

Hanwha Life’s Potential Surge: A New Powerhouse Emerges with Gumayusi

Hanwha Life’s immediate decision to sign Gumayusi right after his transfer announcement is a game-changer that could fundamentally alter the competitive fabric of the LCK. Gumayusi isn’t just any player; he is a core member of a three-time consecutive championship team, boasting world-class skill and international experience as a premier title-holder.

For Hanwha Life, acquiring Gumayusi is a strategic move that could elevate the team’s overall competitiveness to a new level. His lane management skills and global tournament experience address the gaps that Hanwha Life previously struggled with against top-tier opponents. In particular, Gumayusi’s meta adaptability and champion pool are expected to make Hanwha Life’s tactical play far more flexible and diverse.

Intriguingly, the very fact that Hanwha Life can secure a player of Gumayusi’s caliber proves that LCK teams now have the capability to acquire talent on a global scale. This signals continuous improvement in the financial scale and organizational strength of LCK teams.

T1’s Next-Generation Development: The Dawn of Change with Paige

Almost simultaneously with the announcement of Gumayusi’s transfer, T1 disclosed that it would be bringing in Paige (Kim Su-hwan) as their new AD carry. This swift move illustrates T1’s strategic foresight and proactive response to Gumayusi’s departure, highlighting the team’s clear long-term vision.

Paige, an emerging AD carry from Gen.G, stood out as a promising talent during the 2025 season with impressive performances. Choosing a rising star like Paige over a veteran such as Gumayusi is likely not just a financial decision. It reflects T1’s strategic intent to build a new generation of players around Faker, ensuring sustained competitiveness for the future.

Fans are especially curious about the synergy that the Faker-Paige duo will create. If successful, T1 may well enter a new golden era. Conversely, early struggles could provoke critical views on the boldness of this choice. Either way, this will be one of the most closely watched experiments in the LCK.

Signals from the Global eSports Market: The Institutionalization of Mature Player Mobility

One of the most significant implications of Gumayusi’s transfer is the clear evidence that the eSports industry is maturing. In the past, player transfers in Korean eSports were often unilateral decisions made by teams or explained solely by financial reasons. Gumayusi’s case breaks that mold.

Despite being the star player on a three-time championship-winning team and World Championship MVP, he left for personal growth and new challenges. This kind of player agency is common in global pro sports but is a breakthrough for Korean eSports. It demonstrates that Korea’s eSports scene is evolving towards advanced systems of player management comparable to top-tier sports markets.

Moreover, this signals that eSports athletes now have an environment where they can proactively chart their careers. Pro gamers are no longer mere team laborers; they are recognized as professionals who understand their own value and possess the right to make optimal career choices.

The Future Competitive Landscape of LCK: The Dawn of a Multipolar Era

With Gumayusi’s transfer becoming reality, the LCK’s competitive structure is expected to evolve away from a T1-dominated hierarchy toward a more balanced environment where multiple teams vie for the championship. Hanwha Life’s signing of Gumayusi could reduce the absolute dominance of established powerhouses.

Such changes are positive from the LCK’s perspective. Intensified competition encourages active tactical innovation across teams, raising the overall level of play. For fans, it offers the thrill of unpredictable rivalry rather than domination by just one or two teams.

Ultimately, the domino effect set off by Gumayusi’s transfer in this offseason is likely to contribute positively to the long-term health and global competitiveness of the LCK. It also serves as another testament to the eSports industry’s growing maturity, forecasting a future where more players will make strategic transfers to optimize their careers.