The League of Legends community is reeling from the shocking news of former Detonation FocusMe (DFM) mid laner, Lee ‘Yaharong’ Chan-ju, being arrested for the alleged homicide of a 33-year-old woman in Vietnam. As professional leagues prepare for the summer split, this scandal has sent shockwaves through the competitive scene, particularly in Japan.
The Incident
On June 7, 2024, Vietnamese media reported the arrest of a young Korean man as the prime suspect in the murder of a woman in Hanoi, the country’s capital.
This news quickly went viral among League of Legends fans as it became clear that the arrested individual was Yaharong, a well-known former player who had represented DFM at Worlds 2022. Unfortunately, his team was eliminated in the play-ins by Royal Never Give Up.
Details of the Crime
According to reports, Yaharong, aged 23, arranged to meet a 33-year-old woman and they checked into the Lotte Hotel in Hanoi. During their time in the hotel room, Yaharong allegedly proposed engaging in sexual activities.
When the woman declined, an argument ensued, culminating in a violent confrontation. Yaharong is accused of suffocating the woman by pressing a pillow against her face until she died.
After the incident, Yaharong reportedly left the room and attempted to go to the 65th floor of the hotel, allegedly with the intention of ending his own life. However, he was detained by hotel security and subsequently handed over to the Hanoi police department.
Background on Yaharong
Yaharong began his professional career with Jin Air Green Wings, a team notorious for its record of 18 consecutive losses in a single LCK split. He later played for Fredit BRION before joining DFM in 2022. During his tenure with DFM, he participated in the Mid-Season Invitational (MSI) and Worlds 2022.
Mental Health Concerns and Legal Proceedings
Reports suggest that Yaharong suffers from mental health issues. Due to these concerns, he will be extradited to South Korea to face the legal proceedings there. Yaharong has been inactive in the professional League of Legends scene since his departure from DFM at the end of 2022.
Conclusion
The arrest of Yaharong serves as a stark reminder of the intense pressures faced by professional gamers. This tragic event highlights the critical need for robust mental health support within the esports community.
As Yaharong faces legal proceedings, it is essential for teams and organizations to prioritize the well-being of their players, ensuring they have access to necessary resources and support.
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