After
Dplus KIA's victory against Nongshim RedForce, it was time for
Hanwha Life Esports and
Gen.G to clash, and the battle lived up to all expectations. HLE managed to take down Gen.G in a BO5 that lasted over four hours. The rematch of the LCK Summer 2024 final was of a world-class level, proving that both teams have what it takes to represent Korea at the First Stand.
The BO5 between the finalists of the last LCK split was played at a very high level, and the Hard Fearless Format only further highlights the quality of these players and the diversity of their champion pools. It is also interesting to note that regardless of the team, Skarner and Kalista were consistently the first two bans on the Red Side, showing just how highly prioritized these two champions are as First Picks. Keeping almost the same roster is paying off massively for HLE, and the addition of
Choi "Zeus" Woo-je in the toplane is a significant upgrade for the reigning champions, as he brilliantly showcased with his Gnar in Game one.
The MVP title went to
Yoo "Delight" Hwan-joong, who once again showcased his ability to play different playstyles, looking just as comfortable on his Rakan or Poppy as on his Pyke in Game 3. HLE have once again proven that their victory against GEN.G last year was no fluke and that they deserve to be mentioned among the best teams in the world. HLE will now have to face the only undefeated team of this LCK Cup,
DK, in the Upper Bracket to secure a spot in the Grand Final of these Playoffs. Gen.G, on the other hand, will have to defeat
Nongshim, who was crushed by the DK juggernaut, in a do-or-die BO5 in the Lower Bracket to keep their hopes alive in the LCK Cup.
