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Ko Tanaka (often appearing in databases as Kei Tanaka) is an emerging Japanese professional poker player who has rapidly made a name for himself on the international tournament circuit, particularly within the Asian and US markets.
Career Earnings & Biggest Results
With over $146,000 in total live tournament earnings, Ko Tanaka has seen a meteoric rise in 2025 and 2026. His breakout performance occurred at the 2025 World Series of Poker (WSOP) in Las Vegas, where he finished 3rd in the $1,000 Super Turbo (Event #100) for a career-high score of $115,295.
Following his success in the United States, Tanaka has become a consistent threat in Asian festivals. In early 2026, he secured a 10th-place finish in the $2,000 NLH Bounty event at the prestigious Triton Poker Series Jeju. He also holds notable cashes from the European Poker Tour (EPT) Barcelona, including a top-100 finish in the €2,700 High Roller for $10,020.
For a detailed breakdown of all his tournament cashes, you can view the Kei Tanaka Hendon Mob Profile.
Biography & Poker Background
Originally from Japan, Ko Tanaka represents the new wave of Japanese players venturing onto the global stage. While many Japanese pros start in the vibrant domestic “amusement” poker scene, Tanaka quickly transitioned to real-money international festivals. Over the last two years, his “nomadic” approach to the circuit has seen him cash in South Korea, Spain, the United States, and Cambodia, establishing him as one of Japan’s most active and successful mid-to-high stakes travelers.
Play Style & Strategy
Tanaka is recognized for a fearless and aggressive play style, particularly suited for high-pressure environments like the WSOP and Triton Series. His 3rd-place finish in a WSOP “Super Turbo” event highlights his mastery of short-stack strategy and ICM (Independent Chip Model) awareness, where quick, decisive movements are required to navigate high-variance structures. Whether playing in massive-field Las Vegas events or elite, small-field high rollers in Asia, Tanaka’s ability to adapt his aggression levels makes him a formidable opponent.
Social Media & Online Presence
Want to follow Ko Tanaka on social media? You can find his official records and rankings here:
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The Hendon Mob: Ko (Kei) Tanaka Profile
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Global Poker Index: Kei Tanaka GPI Rankings
Originally from the Lake District, UK, I’ve spent the last few years living and breathing the Southeast Asian poker circuit. Since 2025, I’ve been a fixture on the floor at the APT, PokerStars, and WSOP events, serving as a lead reporter and media specialist for Somuchpoker. My work is about more than just recording action; I manage the social media and digital content that brings action rail to the fans. By combining a business education and creative background, I aim to look past the technical hand histories to capture the actual human grit and drama that happens during a deep run.
