Smash legend Daniel “KoreanDJ” Jung announced earlier today that he will be leaving Team Liquid and retiring from competition altogether, citing his continuing battle with hand injuries as the impetus behind his decision.
“I am forever grateful for the love and support of my fans even when I was struggling with my injuries. It truly meant a lot to me. Unfortunately, it is time for me to put an end to my Smash career as the progression of my injuries renders me unable to participate in tournaments,” Jung said in an official statement. “For me, leaving the team is the only way I can find closure in this up-hill battle.”
After Super Smash Bros. Melee’s resurgence in 2013, numerous players were picked up by competitive gaming organizations looking to expand their presence in the community. Jung was among the first, thanks in part to his prominent feature in Travis Beauchamp’s documentary series on the Smash scene.
The following year saw Jung return to regular competition, but he never quite attained the same success as he did in the 2000s. His most recent major appearance at Apex 2015 saw him bow out at 33rd.
“We picked up Smash in March of 2014 and we have not regretted it for a second since. KDJ has played a big part in a scene that continues to grow after 15 years, and we will always cherish what we were able to accomplish with each other,” Team Liquid owner Victor “Nazgul” Goossens said of Jung’s tenure with the team. “This amazing game has given us the opportunity to work with equally amazing people. Thanks, KDJ, for being a part of Smash and Team Liquid.”
Ken Hoang, who signed with Liquid at the same time as Jung, will continue on as part of the team, which also includes Curse pickups Juan “Hungrybox” Debiedma and Kashan “Chillindude” Khan as well as recent Brawl acquisition Nairoby “Nairo” Quezada.
Source: Team Liquid
