Summary
- It was officially confirmed that Choi “Zeus” Woo-je and Kim “Zeka” Geon-woo will remain with HLE for the 2026 LCK season.
- Zeus activates the optional second year of his 1+1 contract, while Zeka signs on for what will now be his fourth consecutive year with HLE.
- Their re-signing comes during a major roster rebuild after the departures of Peanut and Viper, with reports suggesting Kanavi and Gumayusi may fill the vacant roles.
Hanwha Life Esports has secured two of its most important pieces for 2026, confirming that Zeus and Zeka will continue representing the organization next year. HLE’s player renewal plans have kept everyone on the edge of their seats. Securing Zeus and Zeka as top and mid-laners brings crucial stability to HLE during this HLE renewal period.
A New Chapter for Zeus and Zeka
HLE just announced that Zeus will remain with HLE under the second year of his 1+1 contract. This just means he will be extending his run after a standout 2025 season. The two-time World Champion lived up to the hype following his blockbuster move from T1, helping HLE secure titles at the LCK Cup 2025 and First Stand 2025, and carrying the team to a Worlds 2025 quarterfinal finish.
For Zeka, this renewal marks his fourth year with the organization, making him the longest-standing member of the roster. His consistency and reliability in the mid lane have made him one of HLE’s most important pieces, especially during a year defined by roster uncertainty.
A Rebuild in Motion
With Peanut heading into military service and Viper departing, HLE’s jungle and bot lane are currently wide open. However, reports indicate that former JDG jungler Seo “Kanavi” Jin-hyeok is the frontrunner to take over the jungle position. Meanwhile, three-time World Champion Lee “Gumayusi” Min-hyeong is heavily rumored to join HLE as their new ADC.
If these reports become official, HLE fans may see the reunion of Zeus and Gumayusi, one of the strongest top–bot duos.
As for the support role, it remains unconfirmed. Yoo “Delight” Hwan-joong has yet to announce whether he will stay with the team.
The Path Forward
HLE’s 2026 roadmap is becoming clearer with Zeus and Zeka confirmed for next season. The organization has long aimed to challenge Korea’s top powerhouses, T1 and Gen.G, and this offseason appears to be another major attempt to do so.
If the rumored signings will happen, HLE could have one of the strongest rosters in the LCK next year. This could lead to big rivalries and rematches, especially after losing to Gen.G in the LCK Finals and Worlds 2025 quarterfinals.
Conclusion
HLE has two top players to build around next season by keeping Zeus and Zeka on the roster. Their experience and teamwork are key to the team’s future. Peanut and Viper are hard to replace, but HLE looks ready to start a new chapter in 2026. If Kanavi and Gumayusi join, HLE could be set for its most ambitious season yet and get closer to winning the LCK and Worlds.
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