[Game Play] 1,000 people gather to watch a 28-year-old game… “Our star is eternal”

SOOP set up a special stage at the Seoul Jamsil Lotte World Ice Rink on the 17th to hold the ASL (AfreecaTV StarCraft League) Season 22 finals. The 1,000-seat spectator area was filled with fans of all ages and genders, as well as foreign fans. SOOP plans to expand to venues where more fans can gather, such as Gwangalli Beach or Gwanghwamun Square, starting from this ASL finals.

SOOP has operated the ASL since 2016. The league was started with the mindset of honoring loyalty to esports fans rather than pursuing profitability. Although the league has continued for over 10 years, profitability remains low. Issues are raised regarding the weakness of it being an old game, the resulting shortage of players, and the leveling down of skill levels. SOOP maintains its stance of continuing to operate the ASL and breaking through issues head-on.

SOOP sees the ASL as providing future driving force. Wi Young-gwang, Head of SOOP Content Production Division, said during a Q&A session with reporters that day, “It has reached a level where not only pro players but also streamers and amateurs can sufficiently advance to the finals and win,” adding, “I think there is still potential. We must do our job well.” Im Il-bin, Head of SOOP Esports Content Business Division, said, “We are planning content for next year to motivate players and attract many fans.”

On that day, Yoo Young-jin and Kim Min-cheol faced off in a best-of-seven series. Yoo Young-jin stepped onto the finals stage for the first time since Season 14, challenging for his first ASL championship, while Kim Min-cheol aimed for his fifth career title. The two engaged in a close battle for over three hours, and after an intense contest that went to a score of 3-3, Kim Min-cheol claimed the victory.

In the post-match victory interview, Kim Min-cheol said, “I did not feel any mental impact when I lost a set,” adding, “I think I was able to win because I could focus only on the next game.” He further expressed his feelings by saying, “Since the finals venue was the ice rink, I really wanted to make it to the finals, and I am happy that there was a good result.”

He said, “With this victory, my passion for Star has come back to life,” adding, “I am very grateful to the fans who supported me. It feels good to win after a long time, and I will show you even better performances in the future.”