SUPER HIGH ROLLER (100,000 TWD)

Kiseok Kang Clinches Super High Roller

South Korea’s Kiseok Kang delivered a breakout performance at the APL Taipei Super High Roller, rising above a highly competitive field of 91 entries to claim his biggest career score yet at NT$ 2,224,400 (~US$ 75,345). Despite entering three-handed play as the short stack, Kang staged an impressive comeback marked by patience and precision, leading him to victory.

Kang stayed in control once heads-up play began and needed just four hands to close it out. The pivotal moment came in a pot worth over half the chips in play, where Iat Leong Man got it in ahead with As Td against Kang’s Ah 4s . The board ran out 6h Jh 4d Qh Kh , with Leong holding the lead until the river landed a fourth heart to bring Kang a flush and the title.

With a major title now under his belt and confidence riding high, SMP caught up with Kang to reflect on his win, how he navigated the final table, and what lies ahead for his poker career:

SMP: How are you feeling right now?

Kang: I'm incredibly happy to have taken first place in this event. It means a lot to me. Every tournament is a learning experience, and this one is especially meaningful. I hope to keep learning and growing from here.

SMP: Is this your first time winning an event like this?

Kang: Yes, this is my first win of this kind. I've played in quite a few events before, had some good runs and deep finishes, but this is by far the biggest win of my career. My total live earnings were only around $14,000 before this, though I’ve made about $100,000 in online tournaments.

SMP: How did you manage to come back from being the shortest stack with three players left?

Kang: At that point, Leong Iat Man had a massive chip lead, several million in chips, while I was working with a short stack. I just stayed patient and waited for the right spots. When I was short-stacked, I looked for the right time to go all-in. Once I doubled up, I shifted gears and played more aggressively, stealing blinds and building momentum.

SMP: What’s next for you?

Kang: I’m not entirely sure yet. After this event, I’ll take some time to think about my next steps. I definitely want to keep competing, but I haven’t made any decisions yet. One thing I do know is that I’d love to play in the WSOP.

SMP: How are you going to celebrate?

Kang: I’m going to have a nice meal and treat my family. I’ll also be putting some of the prize money toward playing more poker. Thank you again to the organizers, my fellow players, and everyone who supported me. I'm truly grateful.