Han “Peanut” Wang-ho, the prolific jungler for Hanwha Life Esports, has introduced that he should take a step again from the professional League of Legends scene as he is because of start his necessary navy service in 2026.
As Worlds 2025 will get ever nearer, Hanwha Life Esports is likely one of the prime groups within the LCK. Arising subsequent is the LCK Season 2025 playoffs, the place it’ll struggle towards the likes of Gen.G, T1 and KT Rolster.
Hanhwa Life Esports has additionally been confirmed to be competing in Worlds 2025. This would be the remaining competitors that Peanut participates in earlier than leaving for his navy service, and it’s sure that Hanhwa Life Esports might be decided to web a victory earlier than he leaves.
Why is Peanut happening navy service?
Peanut turns 28 quickly, that means he can now not keep away from navy service. Picture Credit score: Colin Younger-Wolff/Riot Video games
For South Korean males, navy service is necessary between the ages of 18 and 28, with the size of time that they’re conscripted various relying on what department of the navy the particular person has been assigned to. Peanut turns 28 in 2026, that means he has run out of time to keep away from doing his necessary service. Sometimes, the project lasts between 18 to 21 months, and with South Korea’s prominence within the higher echelons of League of Legends, this isn’t an uncommon enterprise.
All through the years, we’ve seen gamers reminiscent of Kim “Deft” Hyuk-kyu who performed for KT Rolster as an ADC, endure navy service. Most famously, Lee “Faker” Sang-hyeok was given an exemption from navy service when he was referred to as as a result of reality his crew gained a gold medal on the 2022 Asian Video games. This allowed him an exemption below Korea’s distinctive particular person clause that’s generally used for athletes who contribute to the status of their nation.
Nonetheless, it appears that evidently gained’t be the case for Peanut. Whereas he has racked up loads of particular person awards by means of varied tournaments, he has by no means managed to win the massive one and grow to be a World Champion.
Peanut didn’t point out whether or not he plans to come back again to the aggressive League of Legends scene as soon as he’s performed along with his navy service.
