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: 2026.01.08

Kim Seoungkuk is a South Korean professional poker player who has become a prominent name on the Asian tournament circuit. Known for his tactical resilience and high-volume play, Kim has established himself as a formidable regular in several of the region’s most prestigious poker series, including the Super Cup and Asia Pacific Poker Tour (APPT).

Career Earnings & Biggest Results

According to the latest 2026 data from Somuchpoker and The Hendon Mob, Kim Seoungkuk has recorded several notable scores that highlight his rising status in the South Korean poker scene. His career reached a definitive peak during the Super Cup Jeju 2025–2026 festival at the Lotte Hotel Jeju.

Notable career highlights include:

Super Cup Jeju (Dec 2025): Secured a major runner-up finish in the KRW 400,000 No Limit Hold’em – Kick Off (Event #1). In a massive field of over 400 entries, Kim finished in 2nd place, earning KRW 11,500,000 (~$8,030).
Domestic Circuit (2025): Recorded multiple deep runs in regional South Korean tours, including the Korea Series of Poker (KSOP) and Ace Poker League (APL), consistently finishing in the money in large-field Deepstack and Turbo events.
2026 Rankings: Following his success in Jeju, Kim has moved into the Top 3,000 of the South Korea All Time Money List, marking a significant jump in his professional standing.

Biography & Poker Background

Originally from South Korea, Kim is a key member of the “new wave” of Korean professionals who have turned the island of Jeju into a primary hub for international play. He is a frequent participant in prestigious regional tours such as the Super Cup (SC), the Asian Poker Tour (APT), and the World Federation of Poker (WFP).

Kim’s career trajectory reflects a disciplined professional who has successfully transitioned from local “poker pub” environments to high-stakes casino structures. He is a regular fixture at the Landing Casino and Paradise City, where he consistently tests his skills against diverse international fields from China, Japan, and Taiwan. His recent performance in the Super Cup Kick Off, traditionally one of the most competitive “opening” events of a series, showcases a player who excels under the pressure of large-field dynamics.

Play Style & Strategy

Kim is recognized for a highly calculated and patient tournament strategy, which serves him particularly well in the deep-stacked structures of modern Championship events. He excels in navigating the middle and late stages of tournaments, utilizing a solid fundamental baseline to accumulate chips while minimizing unnecessary risk.

Observers of the Asian circuit note his sharp understanding of tournament dynamics, especially during the high-pressure “bubble” and final table phases. Known for his mental composure and analytical focus, Kim’s ability to maintain a high level of performance across long, multi-day sessions makes him a formidable threat in any major Asian poker festival. His recent runner-up finish in Jeju confirms his status as a player capable of contending for major titles against the region’s elite.

Recent Attendances