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: 2026.02.18

Hwisoo Kim is a South Korean professional poker player who has rapidly gained recognition as a rising star in the Asian tournament circuit, particularly for his deep runs in major festivals like the World Poker Tour (WPT).

Career Earnings & Biggest Results

According to The Hendon Mob, Hwisoo Kim has accumulated $60,355 in total live earnings. His breakout performance occurred in February 2026 at the WPT Cambodia Championship in Phnom Penh. Entering the final table as the chip leader, he navigated a highly competitive field in the WPT Prime Cambodia Main Event to ultimately finish in 4th place for $58,000.

Kim’s presence in the regional circuit is characterized by his involvement in high-stakes Asian stops. Before his massive score in Cambodia, he recorded a cash in the Won Poker Cup in Sihanoukville, finishing 10th in the No Limit Hold’em – Kick Off event for $2,355. His trajectory suggests a focused approach on the burgeoning Southeast Asian market, where he consistently competes against top international talent on tours like the WPT and Asian Poker Tour (APT) .

Biography & Poker Background

Originally from South Korea, Kim has emerged from the competitive Korean “Hold’em Pub” and local tournament scene to test his skills on the global stage. Like many of his compatriots, he has transitioned into a dedicated circuit regular, frequently traveling to major hubs like Cambodia, Vietnam, and Taiwan. His 2026 performance at NagaWorld has solidified his status as one of South Korea’s most promising young talents, moving him up significantly on the South Korea All Time Money List.

Play Style & Strategy

Kim is recognized for a fearless and aggressive tournament strategy, a style that was on full display during his chip-leading run at WPT Cambodia. He excels in the middle-to-late stages of deep-stacked tournaments, where he uses his stack to apply maximum pressure on his opponents. His ability to maintain a chip lead through a multi-day event demonstrates a strong mental game and advanced technical proficiency. While he is capable of playing a patient, value-oriented game, he is most dangerous when he can dictate the pace of the table and leverage his position to win pots without a showdown.

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