EPT![[image loading]](http://www.plu.cn/d/file/sc/note/2011-06-25/6fe4131df4f532747ac64798368ca08b.jpg)
KT's Yellow, an icon of Esports for the past 10 years, the legendary #2, announced after the conclusion of his official retirement ceremony and final game that he would be leaving the StarCraft world completely. Interestingly, standing with Boxer, Nada, and Reach, one of StarCraft's 4 pillars in the early days showed us that sometimes the runner-up gets more glory than the winner.
After losing his retirement game, he continued to analyze it with his teammates, showing expressions of regret - it does make us wonder if he had any thoughts about continuing his career as a player. But Yellow says, "I'm retiring to pave a way for the new generation."
Q: What compelled you to retire?
A: After being discharged from Ace and returning to the team, I stood at the crossroads. In Ace, I practiced diligently, and in the eyes of those around me, I won some meaningful games, but I myself was unsatisfied. My time in the Air Force determined whether or not I would be able to become a pro player once more, but victories were rare. I'm not confident in my ability to survive in the fierce competitive StarCraft world anymore. After returning to the team, I had no way to catch up with my upcoming teammates who had taken my position. I felt there was no real place for me, and thus the decision to retire. Additionally, I feel that the Yellow in his 20s had more passion than the Yellow in his 30s. I felt guilty and regretful, that I couldn't perform as my fans hoped, feeling that they kept swinging between hope and disappointment.
Q: What were you thinking after you finished your retirement game?
A: As I let out a sigh of relief, I did feel it was a pity. After my last bow, I realized that my desire to win was rekindled. But I lost to Midas, and our team lost that day, so it was rather unfortunate. Giving up my spot to the newer players makes me feel relieved, but it's hard to avoid at least a tiny bit of disappointment. I suppose it's impossible to completely erase one's winning desire.
Q: In your 10-year professional career, what do you remember most clearly
A: I was quite torn after I submitted my retirement form. After around 10 days, that feeling started to subside, but when I came to the stadium, and saw all those fans who had come to see me, I felt very moved once more. Also, after seeing all those images from the past, I nearly cried. I'm so grateful that all these people could come to attend my retirement ceremony. Having everyone here with me made it truly unforgettable. Boxer, Nada, TheWind, and other old veterans attended, and I kept thinking of happy memories with them.
Q: Over the past 10 years, what left a strong impression on you?
A: They're all bad memories, haha. The first thing I thought of was losing at Kwanganri in the Finals. During the early stages of the 2005 season, we made it to the finals undefeated but lost to SKT - that was rather regretful. Getting to the match undefeated but being only able to take home second made it all feel rather empty. I remember sobbing together with my teammates as we shared a meal afterwards. The second was losing to TossGirl in the WCG qualifiers. That was pretty much the first time a male progamer had lost to a female progamer, so it became a hot topic of discussion instantly. The third was getting bunker-rushed by Boxer 3 times in a row. That was a blow I'd never felt before in my life. I don't want to remember it, but it just comes up often.
Q: In a world that only acknowledges #1, you've somehow become famous for being the eternal #2
A: I'm quite proud of that. Many people say that it's a world for the winners, but I feel proud for leaving the impression that "as long as you can take #2 many times, consistently, you can be acknowledged just the same". to everyone. Second place is pretty good. I earned this spot against excellent progamers, and I'm satisfied in showing everyone that #2 is great too.
Q: On the day of your retirement ceremony, you finally reached #1 in search engine results
A: Finally getting 1st place on my last day. As this was the stage of my official retirement, going out as #1 is significant, I suppose. It's all because of the passion and support from my fans. In the future,I'll do better than receive a 1st place created for me by others, and reach it with my own hands, through my own action.
Q: What are your plans now?
A: I'm not entirely sure yet. I want to continue doing shows like "Staying up with Shin-Ae". I'm not ruling out coaching or playing StarCraft 2 entirely - there are other possibilities as well. But currently, I don't really have any concrete plans, and I'll be spending the next few months contemplating and organizing my thoughts.
Q: Are the chances nearly nil of you coming back to gaming?
A: Indeed, the chances are quite low. If so, maybe a 1% chance? Today Boxer brought flowers and a box for StarCraft 2, which surprised me at the time. I guess he wants me to switch, haha. We spoke a bit backstage - he said that he hoped I could cheer him on when his team competes, and told me that if I switch to SC2, I could join his team.
Q: What was the response of your parents when you decided to retire?
A: I think they respect my decision. Although initially there was more disapproval than approval, but they trust my choice now.
Q: Final remarks?
A: I've met many people, and experienced many things over the past 10 years. I have so many memories - just reminiscing could take up an entire year. I won't regret my 20s. I've learned a lot, but done so little, and I feel guilty about that. To the fans, all I can say is thank you, thank you... thank you so much. They've given me so much love, so many memories - I'll never forget them. No matter where I go, I'll live proudly as professional player Yellow.
I hope the new generation can bring Esports to a whole new level. I hope one day when I meet others I can say proudly, "I was once there".
SOURCE: PLU (originally DES)
