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Pro billiards star Kim Young-won to face mentor Haekkeo in PBA clash

From Hankyoreh · () Korean

Translated from Korean, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

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  • Professional billiards player Kim Young-won will face his mentor, "Haekkeo," in a highly anticipated match at the PBA Championship.
  • The 18-year-old Kim, a rising star, and the 44-year-old Haekkeo have a history of closely contested practice matches.
  • Haekkeo, who previously coached Kim, has publicly stated that while Kim is a top player, he still has much to learn.

Professional billiards prodigy Kim Young-won, 18, is set to clash with his mentor, veteran player "Haekkeo," 44, in a highly anticipated showdown at the PBA Championship. The matchup was confirmed after both players advanced to the Round of 32 in the 2026-2027 season's third tour event.

Kim, who recently won the World Championship, expressed gratitude towards Haekkeo, acknowledging his significant support during his early career. Kim noted that their practice matches are usually a 50-50 split, but he vowed to showcase his skills in a professional setting. With four PBA titles already under his belt this season, Kim has solidified his position as a top-tier player.

He still has much to learn. I will show him what I've got.

— HaekkeoHaekkeo's critical assessment of his protégé Kim Young-won ahead of their PBA Championship match.

Haekkeo, who has coached Kim, has not shied away from offering critical advice. He acknowledged Kim as the "hottest player in the PBA" and a formidable opponent but added, "He still has much to learn. I will show him what I've got."

The upcoming match is drawing significant fan interest, with many eager to see how the dynamic between mentor and protégé plays out on the professional stage. The PBA Championship continues with other strong contenders also advancing, including Cho Jae-ho, Semi Sayginer, and David Zapata.

If we meet on the PBA stage, I will show you.

— Kim Young-wonKim Young-won's confident statement about facing his mentor Haekkeo in a professional match.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Hankyoreh in Korean. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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