Will Dplus KIA's Raw Power Led by 'ShowMaker' Prevail, or Will 'Dplus KIA Killer' HanJin Brion Rise Again

Why It Matters

The result determines which Korean team advances to the global MSI stage, influencing regional prestige and sponsor exposure. A win for Brion would underscore the volatility of LCK competition and reshape expectations for underdog success.

Key Takeaways

• Dplus KIA won both regular‑season meetings 2‑1 overall
• ShowMaker earned Player of the Match in both games
• HanJin Brion holds a 3‑2 edge in 2025 head‑to‑head
• Dplus KIA brings international playoff experience from KeSPA and LCK Cups
• Brion’s “King Slayer” reputation hinges on bot‑lane dominance

Pulse Analysis

The Road to MSI (RTM) serves as the gateway for Korean League of Legends (LCK) teams to the Mid‑Season Invitational, the sport’s premier international tournament. With only two MSI slots available, the opening clash between Dplus KIA and HanJin Brion carries outsized weight. Both squads finished mid‑table in the LCK regular season, but Dplus KIA’s recent victories over Brion give them a psychological edge. The series also highlights the evolving narrative of the LCK’s franchise era, where legacy teams must constantly prove relevance against hungry challengers.

At the heart of the rivalry is a stark player contrast. Dplus KIA’s mid‑lane star ShowMaker captured Player of the Match honors in both games, demonstrating mastery across champions like Annie, Ahri, Viktor, and a surprise Kog'Maw pick. His ability to dictate tempo forces Brion’s veteran bot‑lane star Teddy into a reactive posture. Conversely, Brion’s “King Slayer” moniker stems from its knack for delivering one‑hit upsets, a trait that thrives on aggressive bot‑lane play and opportunistic macro. The team’s recent five‑game win streak suggests momentum, yet Dplus KIA’s deeper bench, bolstered by international experience at the 2025 KeSPA Cup and 2026 LCK Cup, may prove decisive in a best‑of‑five format.

Beyond the immediate matchup, the outcome will ripple through the esports ecosystem. A Dplus KIA advance reinforces the narrative that seasoned squads dominate on the world stage, reassuring sponsors seeking stability. An upset by HanJin Brion would amplify the appeal of underdog stories, potentially driving higher viewership and attracting new investment to the LCK. Either scenario reshapes the competitive landscape ahead of MSI, where regional representation influences brand positioning, fan engagement, and the broader growth trajectory of professional League of Legends.