DN SOOPers sweep NS 3-0 to win the 2026 KeSPA Cup

DN SOOPers are the 2026 KeSPA Cup champions after dismantling NS RedForce 3-0 in the grand final on August 18. The clean sweep capped off a playoff run that saw the team drop just a single map across three best-of-five series.

A playoff run built on upsets

DN SOOPers opened their bracket run on August 11 with a 3-0 demolition of Hanwha Life Esports in the quarterfinals. Then came the semifinal on August 17, where they drew T1. DN SOOPers took that series 3-1, conceding just a single map before closing the door.

The roster of DuDu, Sharvel, Clozer, deokdam, and Peter delivered performances across the playoff bracket that suggested peak coordination. DN SOOPers’ total playoff record of 9-1 across three series reflects that dominance.

The tenth edition of a storied tournament

The KeSPA Cup is organized annually by the Korea e-Sports Association, the governing body for competitive gaming in South Korea. This year’s edition marked the tenth iteration of the League of Legends version of the event. The tournament features top teams from the League of Legends Champions Korea, and matches were broadcast through official LoL Esports platforms.

The team has gone through several identity shifts over the years. Previously known as Afreeca Freecs and later Kwangdong Freecs, the organization rebranded under the sponsorship of DN Solutions and SOOP.

What the title means for DN SOOPers

Beating Hanwha Life without dropping a map was impressive. Taking down T1 in a semifinal was a legitimate upset. Sweeping the final against NS RedForce confirmed that the earlier results weren’t flukes. DN SOOPers’ total playoff record of 9-1 across three series is the kind of stat line that earns respect from analysts and fans alike.

Clozer, the mid-laner, now has a tournament title to his name in a starting role. Deokdam, a veteran AD carry, anchored the bot lane alongside the less heralded DuDu, Sharvel, and Peter.

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