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: 2026.01.10

Ping Dong is a Chinese professional poker player who has recently made a significant impact on the South Korean tournament circuit, specifically during the 2026 KPC x LPT Series.

Career Earnings & Biggest Results

According to The Hendon Mob, his total earnings stand at $8,805. Dong’s career is currently highlighted by a strong performance at the KPC x LPT Series 2026 in Jeju, South Korea. His best live cash to date occurred during this series, where he earned KRW 9,400,000 ($6,500) for a 17th-place finish in the KRW 5,000,000 High Roller.

In addition to his High Roller success, he secured a 15th-place finish in the series’ opening event, the Jeju Opening, earning KRW 3,330,000 ($2,305). Earlier in 2025, Dong demonstrated his versatility by competing in mixed game formats, notably participating in the “Eyt” Mixed Game Deep Stack at the CPG Championship Final Sanya.

Biography & Poker Background

Hailing from China, Dong has transitioned into a regular on the international Asian circuit, with a particular focus on high-guarantee festivals in Jeju. While his early career results were rooted in regional Chinese events like the CPG Championship, his recent deep runs in South Korea have significantly elevated his profile. As of January 2026, he is ranked 906th on the Somuchpoker Index (SPI), breaking into the top 10 of the seasonal leaderboard following his back-to-back cashes in Jeju.

Play Style & Strategy

Dong is recognized for a disciplined and calculated approach, effectively navigating both large-field preliminary events and elite high-roller fields. His ability to secure a deep run in a 429-entry field like the Jeju Opening, followed by a top-20 finish in a competitive High Roller event, demonstrates strong tournament endurance and tactical adaptability. Known for his technical proficiency in No Limit Hold’em, his recent participation in mixed game events also suggests a broadening strategic repertoire that makes him a versatile threat in multi-format festivals.

Recent Attendances