Updated: 2026.03.18

Gab Yong Kim is one of the most prominent figures in the South Korean poker scene and a true pioneer for the game in his home country. Originally from Seoul, he was part of the legendary first generation of Korean professional gamers, competing in Starcraft alongside icons like “ElkY” Grospellier. It was through these gaming circles that he first discovered poker, and he has since transformed into a world-class tournament professional. Known for his “power poker” style and incredible ability to build massive chip stacks, Kim is a regular at the highest stakes across Asia and Europe. He is widely respected for his technical skill and his role in helping South Korea become a major force in global poker.

Career Earnings & Biggest Results

According to The Hendon Mob, Gab Yong Kim has total live earnings of over $3.2 million. His most significant career achievement came in 2022 at the EPT Prague Main Event. After a grueling final table and a four-way deal, he walked away with a massive $686,820 for his 4th place finish, which remains his largest live score to date.

Kim has also been a dominant force in “Mystery Bounty” events. In late 2023, he returned to Prague and won the €3,000 Mystery Bounty for $232,019, proving his aggressive style is perfect for that format. He is also a frequent face on the APT circuit, where he has recorded dozens of deep runs and final tables. On the WSOP stage, he has several high-profile cashes, including a 4th place in the 2024 WSOPE High Roller for $143,124. In early 2026, he continued his success by cashing in multiple events at the WPT Prime Cyprus Championship and WPT World Championship events.

Gab Yong Kim poker — Gab Yong Kim (credit: PokerNews photographer Manuel Kovsca)

Biography & Poker Background

Gab Yong Kim’s journey into poker is unique because of his background as a professional Starcraft player. Growing up in Seoul, he was at the center of the esports revolution and learned the game from Bertrand “ElkY” Grospellier during their time as elite competitors. This gaming foundation gave him a huge advantage in understanding strategy and handling high-pressure situations.

He considers himself a member of the “first generation” of Korean poker pros who helped pave the way for the current explosion of the game in South Korea. While he used to play more cash games in the past, he now focuses almost entirely on the international tournament circuit. He is currently based in Ilsan and is often seen traveling to PokerStars events worldwide, representing the South Korean flag with immense pride.

Play Style & Strategy

Gab Yong Kim is famous for a fearless and dominating style of play that many commentators call “power poker.” He is excellent at putting pressure on his opponents, especially during the middle and late stages of tournaments. He has a rare talent for “constructing a chip fortress,” often ending the early days of major events as the overall chip leader.

His strategy relies on calculated aggression and psychological pressure. Coming from a professional gaming background, he is extremely comfortable multi-tasking and analyzing complex board textures in real-time. He is not afraid to play big pots with marginal hands if he senses his opponent is uncomfortable. This “no fear” attitude, combined with the technical foundations he learned from the best in the world, makes him one of the most difficult players to bluff in any tournament field.

Want to follow Gab Yong Kim as he continues to climb the South Korean all-time money list in 2026? You can track his latest results and full career history through these official links: