Cloud9 has announced its midlaner, Lee ‘Loki’ Sang-min, has parted ways with its League of Legends roster.
The North American esports organisation revealed Loki will be staying in Seoul, South Korea, due to personal reasons.
Announced on November 4th, 2025, Cloud9 shared that Loki had “made the necessary and deeply personal decision to remain in Seoul to be close to his family.” The organisation also confirmed that it will be supporting the former midlaner as he parts ways with the roster.
Loki joined Cloud9 in November 2024, immediately making an impact. During his rookie season, the organisation finished second in the first two LTA North splits before securing a top-four finish in Split three. He was also crowned the LTA North Rookie of the Year.
“Thank you for supporting and cheering me,” said Loki on social media. “It was a hard choice, but I have to leave my C9 team. It was a really good memory for me.”
With Loki departing the team, Cloud9 is left looking for a new player to fill the role of midlaner for 2026. Next year marks the return of the LCS and CBLOL regional circuits, ending the LTA after one season. Cloud9 is one of eight teams competing in the 2026 LCS season, joining the likes of FlyQuest and Sentinels.
Loki’s departure is the latest change to Cloud9’s League of Legends roster. After falling short of qualifying for Worlds, the organisation appointed Nick ‘Inero’ Smith as its Head Coach, who steps into his first Head Coach role since leaving Immortals in September 2024.
What Next For Cloud9?
With the off-season in full swing, Cloud9 has the opportunity to recruit a suitable replacement for Loki as it looks to build on a solid 2025 campaign.
After missing out on Worlds and the Mid-Season Invitational, the organisation hopes to return to international tournaments in 2026.
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