Competitive Apex Legends is about to undergo some changes as Han Sang-joon, better known as SangJoon, has announced retirement from the Apex Legends Global Series. After playing professional for four years, this South Korean standout is stepping away from esports competition. This is mostly due to the requirement of mandatory military service in South Korea.
Career Milestones in Apex Legends
SangJoon is known on ALGS since his beginning in 2021. He played for several top organisations during his career, the most recent aligning with teams such as Crazy Raccoon and REJECT. Achievements like these are not new to him, which made his presence felt in the competitive Apex scene of Asia and brought glory to it.
A pivotal moment in SangJoon’s career came just recently when the 2024 ALGS Split 1 Playoffs happened. It was due to him representing REJECT that the team performed so well that they managed to get first place in the finals after trailing fifth in the group stage. The squad won $300,000 in prize money for the victory and SangJoon was crowned MVP of the event for his great play and leading.
Transition and Final Season
SangJoon’s strong performances continued into 2025 when he competed with Crazy Raccoon at the ALGS APAC North Split 1 Pro League, where they came eighth out of thirty. Their hard work took them to Mid-Season Playoffs, where they finished the run at the 32nd position and won more prize money.
In a translation released online, SangJoon stated that while he once mentioned retiring, this time it’s real since he will be enlisting. He thanked the supporters saying they helped him get to the major playoffs as well win on the ALGS stage.
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What’s Next: Impact on Future Occurrences
Due to SangJoon leaving the team, the Apex Legends community will see no action from him in the upcoming 2025 Split 2 Pro League, the Challenger Circuits taking place during the months of August until October, and the ALGS 2026 Championship in early next year. His death signals the end of the road for fans and fellow competitors who have witnessed his evolution from rising star to champion.
By Rampage, Sang Joon’s professional journey with Apex Legends has come to an end. However, his impact on the Asia-Pacific esports scene remains invaluable, and many people will keep an eye on what the future holds for the player post his military service.