Byun Sang-il Clinches Maiden Maxim Coffee Cup Title

Byun Sang-il has finally ascended to the pinnacle of the Maxim Coffee Cup, securing his first-ever championship in the prestigious tournament. This hard-fought victory, achieved after eight previous attempts, underscores Byun's perseverance and skill in the demanding world of professional Go.

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I am happy to have won after reaching the finals for the first time.

The final match against rival Park Jung-hwan was a closely contested affair, with Byun ultimately prevailing 2-1. This win adds another significant trophy to Byun's already impressive career collection, bringing his total to 13 titles. The Maxim Cup, exclusively for 9-dan players, represents a significant achievement in the Korean Go community.

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I think preparing while drinking Kanu was a good result.

At the award ceremony, Byun expressed his joy and attributed his success partly to his preparation, even humorously mentioning the role of "Kanu coffee" in his training. The event, sponsored by Dongsuh Foods, also saw the runner-up, Park Jung-hwan, receive his accolades. The presence of key figures from the Korea Baduk Association and Dongsuh Foods highlights the importance of this tournament within the Korean cultural landscape. For Korean Go enthusiasts, this victory is not just about individual achievement but a testament to the enduring popularity and competitive spirit of the game in the country.

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We express our gratitude to all the players who showed high-level games during the tournament and to Byun Sang-il and Park Jung-hwan, 9-dan players.