The fierce battle to determine the last-standing team continues today. Today marked the Phase 2 Grand Final of the ‘2023 PUBG WEEKLY SERIES: KOREA, or, PWS, an event that crowns the best Battlegrounds team in Korea held at the Vita500 Colosseum in Jamsil, Seoul. We attended the Colosseum to meet players and fans alike, who were deeply engaged in the competition. Are you curious about who took the crown at this PWS?
The first player we interviewed on-site was Loki, also known as Jung-young Park, the mascot of Danawa e-sports. His deep immersion in gameplay, even during the practice sessions before the match, is solid proof of his consistent and amazing performance. He opened the interview with a laugh.
“Our underwhelming performance on the first day of the Grand Final was entirely due to the order. Inonix’s order wasn’t quite up to par”, he said with a smile.
When asked about his expectations for his performance compared to when he played at the ‘PUBG Nations Cup (PNC)’, he answered,
“I feel that the PWS is more of a challenge for me. As expected, Korean teams are tough competitors.” Still, he expressed strong confidence by stating that his team would win the trophy regardless, so he felt rather composed. A humorous yet cautious response, indeed.
Next, we spoke to Heather, also known as Ji-hun Cha, the new member of Kwangdong Freecs. Despite claiming to be the most on-edge during interviews, Heather shared his thoughts with composure. He said he felt the love and support from his fans the most after joining his current team.
“Many fans share supportive messages through social media and streaming chats. I aim to repay them by performing better. “
He, who said his ultimate goal is to reach the ‘PUBG Global Championship (PGC)’, gave a short and sweet answer on how he plans to get there:
“By playing well (laughs). I’ll perform well, no matter what.”
We then met up with JangGu, or Jeong-min Jo from Dplus KIA. He greeted us with a wide smile and attributed the team’s positive momentum to mutual trust.
“It’s a team game, so trust in each other is crucial. That’s what’s driving our success.”
On his strengths as a professional player, he commented,
“My ability to anticipate other players’ moves during engagements is my greatest asset. I’m pretty good at psy-war.”
Before concluding our talk, JangGu took a moment to thank his supporters.
“I’m truly grateful to my fans for their unwavering support. I’m committed to doing my very best not to disappoint you.”
Next, we met with Hela, or Jae-hyun Hwang, from Divine tM, who burst onto the scene like a supernova in PWS Phase 2. He began with a reflection on the team’s journey, expressing surprise at their current momentum.
“Honestly, I didn’t foresee such a strong performance in this series. I think this is a testament to the power of confidence.”
On the topic of whether he was making extra efforts to enhance teamwork,
“(After a long contemplation) Not particularly. I think I try to communicate as much as possible during the game, but that’s about it. “
Hela, whose preferred way to spend holidays is to relax and unwind on the bed, concluded his interview with a bold declaration of his ambitions for the PGC.
“I’ll secure a victory today and make my way to the PGC. Watch me play.”
We then spoke to Pio, or Seung-hun Cha, the superstar of Gen.G. Sporting a smile, he revealed a preference for online play over offline play, citing comfort with the familiar setting.
“The support from the fans is amazing, but the comfort of a known environment is something I cherish,” he said with a laugh.
When asked about his mindset for the day’s competition,
“Today is about more than just winning; it’s about refining our teamwork in preparation for the PGC. I view today’s match as a crucial step towards that goal and will play with that confidence in mind”, said Pio.
His last comment in the interview was a request to the fans.
“Our performance today might not be flawless. However, I hope you can understand that this is a part of the process of fine-tuning our play style for the PGC. Regardless, we’re committed to making you proud today. “
The last player we interviewed was Heaven, or Tae-sung Kim, from V7 FUNPIN, who is also known as one of the national players in the PNC. He approached the game with serenity, sharing his determination for the day’s event.
“We’re on the lead’s tail. Today is our chance to overtake them. And I assure you, we will claim the top spot.”
When asked how he feels about his current performance compared to how it was during the PNC, he answered
“I was very nervous during the PNC. But I’m not anymore, because I’m playing for the team I belong to. I can now give it give it my all.”
Regarding the impact of his PNC experience, he acknowledged its value by saying,
“I learned a lot from Danawa players. It truly expanded my horizons.”
Heaven concluded with his heartfelt aspiration for the year.
“My ultimate wish is to enter the PGC with my team and achieve remarkable results. Your cheers mean everything to us.”
Lastly, we turn the spotlight to another vital component of the PWS. The fans. We engaged with some devoted supporters who arrived two hours early, brimming with anticipation. Among them were enthusiastic fans of Dplus KIA and V7 FUNPIN.
“I think the best part of attending live matches is that I can feel the intensity of competition up close to the players.“
When we asked fans to share shout outs to their favorite players, they mentioned Americano (Young-hun Jeong) from Dplus KIA and the players of V7 FUNPIN.
“We are eager to see them performing spectacularly in the PGC as well after achieving impressive results in this PWS. Remember, we’re always rooting for you!”
After a series of unpredictable and intense battles, Danawa e-sports clinched the PWS Phase 2 winner title, securing the ‘chicken dinner’ in both the final matches, Match 19 and Match 20. With this victory, Danawa e-sports not only hoisted the trophy but also claimed the grand prize of 50 million Korean won. Congratulations, Seoul, Salute, Loki, Inonix! We wish that you carry this triumphant spirit into the PGC as well.
The excitement teeming in the Colosseum was palpable, a testament to the passion and buzz that Battlegrounds e-sports elicit. Today’s offline event must have provided an unforgettable experience, leaving a lasting impression on fans. Why not join us next time and experience these exhilarating vibes for yourself? Nothing ignites the passion for Battlegrounds e-sports like immersing yourself in the vibrant cheers and dynamic environment of offline games!
And there’s more! The tickets to the PGC 2023, the dream of every player, were finally awarded to their deserving recipients. They are Danawa e-sports, Gen.G, Dplus KIA, V7 FUNPIN, and AZLA PENTAGRAM. The PGC 2023 is set to take place in Bangkok, Thailand, from November 18 to December 3, 2023. Check the official Battleground e-sport website for more detailed information (https://www.pubgesports.com)!