Derick Elomina discovered poker at 14, playing home games with his high school friends. What began as a pastime quickly grew into a passion that shaped his career. By 21, he entered the poker industry as a field reporter — just old enough to step foot inside the casino. Starting as a hand reporter, he steadily honed his craft, blending sharp observation with growing writing skills. Known for his dedication, he constantly roams the floor to capture the action, conduct interviews, and deliver live updates. With a strong commitment to the game and a passion for telling poker’s stories, Derick continues to build his path in the industry.

Updated: 2026.01.03

Donghyup Kim is a South Korean professional poker player who has quickly established a reputation as a resilient and consistent competitor on the Asian circuit, widely recognized as a regular in major festivals like the APT, APPT, and WPT Prime.

Career Earnings & Biggest Results

According to The Hendon Mob, his total live earnings stand at $170,980. His career-best cash of $113,000 was achieved in a prestigious high-stakes tournament, significantly boosting his standing on the global stage. Kim has enjoyed an exceptionally productive 2025 campaign, notably securing several deep runs in major Southeast Asian stops. He finished 65th in the 2025 APPT Championship in Manila for PHP 20,000 (∼$517) and 67th in the Manila Megastack 22 Main Event for PHP 85,000 (∼$1,487). In late 2025, he also found success at the APT Championship in Taipei, finishing 211th in the National Cup for NTD 29,100 (∼$960). His versatility was further demonstrated by a 263rd place finish in the 2024 APT Taipei Poker Classic Main Event for NTD 83,000 (∼$2,580).

Biography & Poker Background

Originally from South Korea, Kim has transitioned from the domestic Korean circuit to becoming a highly traveled international regular. He is currently ranked 178th on the South Korea All Time Money List and holds a top 150 national ranking in the Global Poker Index (GPI). His trajectory is marked by a steady ascent through the regional ranks, frequently cashing in premier venues across the Philippines, Taiwan, Vietnam, and Cambodia. Over the last few years, he has successfully established himself as a prominent figure in the “new wave” of Korean professionals dominating the Asian poker landscape.

Play Style & Strategy

Kim is known for a highly disciplined and calculated tournament strategy, often described as a player who excels in navigating the complex dynamics of large-field championships. His ability to maintain composure during high-leverage situations was recently showcased in a WPT Prime event, where he successfully called a significant river bluff to eliminate an opponent and solidify a deep-stack position. He is particularly dangerous in multi-day events, where his patient accumulation and sharp situational awareness allow him to consistently outlast massive fields. This technical proficiency, combined with an aggressive approach to stack management, makes him a formidable threat at any final table in the Asian market.

Recent Attendances