Deft reportedly nearing Nongshim RedForce move for LCK 2027 return

Deft reportedly nearing Nongshim RedForce move for LCK 2027 return

Kim "Deft" Hyuk-kyu is reportedly preparing to return to professional League of Legends with Nongshim RedForce for the 2027 LCK season following the completion of his military service.

According to Sheep Esports, the parties are working toward an agreement that would bring the former World Champion back to the league after two years away from professional competition.

The move has not been officially announced.

Deft prepares for competitive comeback

Deft last competed professionally in 2024 before beginning his military service.

Despite his extended absence, the veteran AD carry had not announced his retirement and previously indicated that he intended to return to competitive play.

Sheep Esports reports that several LCK organizations expressed interest in signing him, including Nongshim RedForce and Kiwoom DRX .

Deft has also recently resumed playing ranked League of Legends, reaching Challenger while using champions including Ezreal, Kai'Sa and Yunara.

Diable reportedly exploring other opportunities

The proposed transfer could also affect Nongshim's current AD carry, Nam "Diable" Dae-geun.

According to the report, the 18-year-old is already exploring opportunities with other organizations ahead of the 2027 season.

Diable previously represented BNK FEARX before joining Nongshim RedForce during the 2026 season.

World Champion potentially returns

Deft began his professional career in 2013 and won the Mid-Season Invitational in 2015.

His most notable achievement came in 2022, when he helped DRX defeat T1 in the World Championship final.

Should the agreement be completed, Nongshim would become his first professional team following military service.