Zoe has covered major poker series across Asia, including APT and the Players Series. With solid experience as a live reporter, she now joins SoMuchPoker to deliver in-depth coverage and share her insights from the tables.

Updated: 2026.02.13

Jin Yu Chen is a skilled Taiwanese poker player who achieved a career-defining breakthrough in early 2026, outlasting thousands of opponents in one of Asia’s most prestigious tournament series.

Career Earnings & Biggest Results

Jin Yu Chen’s live tournament career reached a historic peak in February 2026 at the 19th Taiwan Millions Tournament (TMT 19). Chen navigated an unprecedented field of 8,066 entries in the Main Event to reach the final table. He ultimately finished in 9th place, earning a career-high payout of TWD 674,000 (~USD 21,300), according to the Hendon Mob This performance not only marked his first major final table in a multi-million dollar prize pool event but also secured him an invaluable ticket to the 2026 TMTC (TMT Championship).

Prior to this breakout, Chen was a steady performer in the regional circuit, primarily competing in mid-stakes events at the CTP Asia Poker Arena and the Asian Poker Tour (APT) . With his TMT Main Event score, Chen’s total live earnings have surpassed the USD 30,000 mark, significantly boosting his standing on the Taiwan All Time Money List.

Biography & Poker Background

Originally from Taiwan, Jin Yu Chen has been an active member of the Taipei poker community for several years. He is a familiar face at the CTP Club (Chinese Texas Hold’em Poker Association), where he refined his tournament strategy in high-volume local series. His rise to prominence at TMT 19 is considered a classic “grinder’s success story,” as he transitioned from smaller side-event cashes to competing under the bright lights of a major live-streamed final table against international champions like Zee Hyo Jung.

Play Style & Strategy

Jin Yu Chen is recognized for a resilient and patient tournament approach, which proved essential during the grueling multi-day structure of the 8,000-entry TMT Main Event. He excels at disciplined stack preservation, often navigating the middle stages of tournaments with a “survival-first” mentality before shifting to a more aggressive gear near the bubble and final table. During his TMT run, he showcased impressive mental stamina and a strong understanding of final table ICM (Independent Chip Model) pressure, allowing him to outlast a field composed of both seasoned pros and aggressive recreational players.

Recent Attendances