
T1 Reaches EWC LoL Semifinals After Defeating HLE
T1 has defeated HLE to reach the 2026 EWC LoL Semifinals. The return to form arrives after a lackluster MSI performance, here’s a recap.

Peyz and G-Dragon, who will collab in a UNESCO fundraiser. Image Credits: G-Dragon Foundation, Korea Economics Daily
A new, unexpected crossover has emerged. K-pop star G-Dragon is collaborating with League of Legends pro Peyz, and the duo is working to preserve UNESCO heritage sites. Here’s a recap.
Kim “Peyz” Soo-hwan is one of T1′s core roster members, and one of the most active current League of Legends athletes. The botlaner joined the organization in November 2025, replacing former team member Gumayusi. He previously had experience on GEN.G and JDG, notably winning the 2024 Mid-Season Invitational (MSI).
On July 23, 2026, Korea Economic Daily reported that Peyz will be partnering with rap idol G-Dragon in a conservation fundraiser. K-Pop fans may recall G-Dragon as a key member of boy band BigBang, who later launched a solo career. The pair is starting “a global campaign to protect a UNESCO World Heritage site.” Loud Corporation is involved in the effort. The initiative is trying “to raise awareness of the importance of World Heritage protection and expand citizen participation.”
The release, translated from its original Korean, says that Peyz and G-Dragon will be selling merch and donating the proceeds to the cause. In true gamer fashion, the items of choice are mousepads. They have unique, Peyz-themed designs, and the money raised will go directly to “protection and preservation activities.”
Peyz stated about the collaboration:
“It is an honor to be part of this meaningful campaign to protect World Heritage sites. […] As an esports player, I will strive to create a positive influence among fans and encourage more people to take an interest in World Heritage preservation.”
Loud Corporation representatives emphasized the impact the esports community can have in generating ‘social value.’ CEO Seo Kang-joon reportedly also took an interest in continuing future esports partnerships. “We will continue activities that create a healthy donation culture where esports players and fans can naturally participate.“
Peyz’ collaboration with G-Dragon “aims to connect esports, which has a youth audience and global fandom, with World Heritage protection efforts.”

The move arrives shortly after Peyz’s T1 teammate, Faker, revealed he had become an honorary police officer. The midlaner also took up a Public Relations Ambassador role to prevent unhealthy Cyber-gambling habits.
The string of developments indicates a shift in public esports perception. Pro gamers are being followed on the same scale as traditional athletes and celebrities, with large organizations recognizing this. Faker and Peyz’s collaborations allow them to direct that influence, bringing a new target audience to the initiatives they represent.
Stay tuned for more League of Legends esports and in-game news.

T1 has defeated HLE to reach the 2026 EWC LoL Semifinals. The return to form arrives after a lackluster MSI performance, here’s a recap.

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