Despite a slow start and low fan expectations for Immortals, the organization has been battling to redeem itself in the 2024 League Championship Series (LCS). Historically struggling, the team is now aiming to redeem its past through the signings of noteworthy and promising prospects. Last week, Olleh sat down with Sheep Esports in an exclusive interview to discuss his future with the team. Immortals' support player appears to be brimming with confidence and mentions his goals for the team this year...
Immortals, posing during the LCS Asset Day 2024.
| You're making a return to the LCS after a long hiatus, having served your Korean military service and taking the time to grind on the local ranked ladder. Can you share how your time away from the league was for you? Did you always envision yourself making a comeback to the LCS?
Olleh: “In Korea, the general sentiment is that if you go to the army as a pro player, your career is basically over. So, when I went to the army, I had to think about my future. The first question was whether I would even be given a chance to play on stage again, and the second was, could I still perform better than other pro players?“
“I first decided to play on the Korean ranked ladder to figure out if I could still play at a high level and, once I achieved rank one there, I gained confidence in myself. Then, I started receiving offers from teams, and eventually IMT approached me. People did not stop playing while I was in the army, so I was scared that I would not have the same level as them anymore.“
“When I was in the army, more than 80% of people there were born around 2002, while I was born in 1994. Most people there were about 8 to 9 years younger than me. To me, it was quite funny when I looked at the IMT roster and noticed that Castle was also born in 2002.“
“I realized that leadership isn't just about having more power; it's about leading through actions and words. Joining IMT seemed like a good opportunity to apply what I learned from the military to an LCS team.“
| You mentioned that reaching Rank 1 in Korea gave you confidence, how important was it for you? Did you feel like you HAD to do it to prove yourself again?
Olleh: “For me, throughout my career, I've always had this mindset that I'll retire when I can't beat a particular player. It's similar to what Ambition said when he couldn't beat Faker in mid lane and transitioned to jungler. If I ever feel like I can't surpass someone, then I believe it might be time for me to retire.“
“In Korea, the solo queue consists of all pro players and even Chinese players, creating a highly competitive environment. When I play in Korea's solo queue, if I ever get the sense that I can't compete with a certain player, I start considering retirement. That's why I put in the effort. After achieving rank one, I feel like I can beat anyone.“
“At that time, Gen.G's bot lane duo was probably the best, and so I played against pros like Delight, Keria, etc... Playing against them in solo queue reassured me. It gave me the confidence that if I were to face them on stage, I could hold my own. Even though solo queue and competitive play are different, it's a distinct feeling.“
Olleh, posing for Immortals' media shoot.
| How do you feel about your skill level now compared to before your military break? Do you think you're stronger than before?
Olleh: “I think now, I find myself focusing more on things outside of the game. When it comes to playing, my mindset and habits as a player are solid because I put in a lot of effort, concentrate on my game, and study extensively. However, I realized I wasn't taking care of myself outside of the game. There were times I neglected basic things like taking a shower or cleaning my room, just immersing myself in gaming. But during my time in the army, I had to prioritize my physical and mental well-being, and I gained valuable lessons from that experience. Now, I make sure to clean my room and take a shower every day. I've come to understand that even small things outside of the game need to be done perfectly to excel in my job. So now, I do what I have to do without delay. If someone says it needs to be done or if I feel the urge to do it, I just go ahead and do it. No overthinking, just getting things done.“
| How has Immortals been doing since you've arrived? Do you feel like your team is getting along well currently?
Olleh: “In my career, I've noticed that in a group, even if everyone is around the same age, there's usually someone who stands out as a captain or leader. Being the oldest on the team, it feels like I'm basically their grandfather [laughs]. The good thing this time is that I can change the mood and atmosphere. I'm not the type to blame or bring negativity to the team. So, I do my best to make everyone feel comfortable, cracking jokes or encouraging them to express themselves freely without fear of punishment or blame. My team consists of really nice guys who work hard, and I genuinely believe that with their dedication, we can make IMT great again. I'm hopeful for the best.“
Immortals, competing in the 2024 LCS.
| The environment of the team must be quite unique due to the divide between South Korean and North American players. How do you communicate with one another?
Olleh: “Tactical doesn't actually speak Korean; he's kind of a fake Korean [laughs]. He can read but doesn't understand. Tactical and Armao are good friends and live together, so they usually hang out together a lot. Castle and Mask played together in KT Challengers before, so they're also very close friends. I'm the oldest, just a boomer here.“
“Sometimes, I try to make group talks together but, most of the time, I talk with my coaches since they're over 30, and we can discuss things. I care about my body, health, and mental state, taking probiotics or something. Young kids don't care; now that I'm old, I have to care about my body. I discuss these things with my coaches, and they're happy to answer. But when I talk to my players about it, they don't even know what the hell I'm talking about. It feels like a clash of zoomers and boomers.“
| What are your goals with Immortals' this year?
Olleh: “I believe Immortals HAS to go to the World Championship this year. In 2017, we made it to Worlds, but when I returned home, my team just disappeared. I hope that won't happen this time [laughs]. So, yeah, I want us to reach Worlds. People expect us to be in the top six or top eight, whatever; the off-season winner is IMT because we'll be better than last year anyway. It's tough, but I think our team can be successful. I have a good feeling about this year; I think it will be IMT's year.“
| A lot of people were not very excited at the idea of IMT signing a lot of Korean imports this year. Most fans would prefer teams to invest into local talents if they do not deem the imports worth their status. Do you think your new teammates will be able to live up to expectations set for them?
Olleh: “I think that whether Immortals chose a top player from NA or Korea, it doesn't really matter. My job is to give my best for the team. However, it's more about the team's direction. If the team needs a top laner with a strong work ethic, and they can't find that in NA, well they might look elsewhere. We were also in discussion with Licorice I think; Immortals wasn't solely focused on getting Korean players. I'm not aware of everything that went down but, I think that IMT most likely had good reasons to chose Castle over other options. There has been several other candidates, including North American players.“
| Any last words for the fans?
Olleh: “Just cheer for Immortals, we will go to the World Championship.“
Olleh, at the LCS Opening Day 2024.
What's next?
Currently sitting at 0-2, the team has a lot to work on to improve their score-line. Next week, the team is set to face Shopify Rebellion, another generally underrated team. Continuing their journey in the LCS 2024 Spring Split, the two are set to clash on January 27th, the two hoping to pick up their first win in the competition.
Week 2 Immortals LCS Schedule:
- Saturday 27th - IMT vs SR
- Sunday 28th - TL vs IMT
