On June 23, Afreeca Freecs defeated Hanwha Life Esports on day 11 of the 2021 LCK Summer split. With this victory over HLE, AF now holds a 4-1 record in the regular split, and are well on their way to the top of the standings.

The top laner for AF, Kim “Kiin” Ki-in, joined the press room for a post-match interview.

Thoughts on the 2-0 victory?

We actually have a 1 point penalty because we handed in our roster late. That’s why we really needed to keep up in points, so winning 2-0 tonight feels really good. 

What are some of the differences that the team went through between Spring and Summer?

I feel that we were trying to play more to our individual strengths during the Spring split. Nowadays, we feel that we’re on the same page, and play more as a unit.

The importance of the top lane has gone up since the Spring split. Do you feel that more responsibility falls upon your shoulders in-game?

While I do think that the top lane can exert more influence around the map, I think we're seeing this trend due to different champions being played in the top lane from the Spring split.

What are your thoughts on the Gangplank vs Akali matchup?

I think that GP really needs to win lane. He’s immobile, so he also needs to be wary of ganks.

How has Cain changed the way the team functions since he joined?

Communication, teamwork, and overall macro are the three biggest things that he is continuously changing within the team. 

Whenever we see you on stage, I see you smiling. Do you feel that you’re having more fun?

I think that the two biggest reasons why it seems like I’m in a better mood is because I get to meet the fans and be able to feel the pressure of playing on-site at LoL Park.

What do you think about the two new items that came out in this patch?

I think that split pushing champions will utilize the items very well, but I’ve yet to test them out, so I can’t say for sure yet. 

Do you have a personal goal for this split?

My initial goal is to make it to the LCK playoffs; eventually, I want to make it to Worlds and put on a good performance.

Lastly, is there anything you’d like to say?

It’s been a while since we’ve had a great start to a split, so I want to keep this momentum rolling and make our fans proud.