Hanwha Life Esports Crowned 2025 First Stand Champions with Dominant 3-1 Victory Over Karmine Corp

South Korean powerhouse Hanwha Life Esports (HLE) has etched its name in history by winning its first international title at the 2025 LoL First Stand, securing a 3-1 victory over Karmine Corp (KC) in the grand final. With this triumph, HLE claims the championship title and a $300,000 grand prize.

Meanwhile, Karmine Corp, in their first-ever international tournament appearance, put up a strong fight but ultimately settled for second place, earning $225,000 in prize money.

HLE’s Road to Victory: An Unstoppable Run

HLE’s dominant tournament performance began in the Group Stage, where they went undefeated, sweeping Top Esports and CTBC Flying Oyster (CFO), while securing 2-1 victories over Karmine Corp and Team Liquid. Their impressive run secured them a spot in the Playoffs as one of the top contenders.

On the other hand, Karmine Corp had a rough start, losing 1-2 to Liquid and suffering a 0-2 defeat against CFO. However, they rebounded with a 2-0 upset over Top Esports, which helped them advance despite a 1-2 loss to HLE.

In the semifinals, KC battled through a grueling 3-2 series against CFO, while HLE eliminated Top Esports, setting up an exciting final showdown between the two teams.

Grand Final Recap: HLE Outclasses Karmine Corp in a 3-1 Showdown

Game 1: Karmine Corp Takes the Lead

The opening match was a close contest, with both teams trading early blows. However, KC capitalized on HLE’s mistakes, forcing scrappy fights and controlling the map. A crucial team fight in the river turned the tide in KC’s favor, allowing them to snowball their gold lead and close out the game in 36 minutes with a 22-17 kill lead.

Game 2: HLE Strikes Back with a Controlled Victory

After a shaky start, HLE adapted their strategy, slowing the game down and focusing on macro play and objectives. By securing Dragon Soul and methodically dismantling KC’s turrets, HLE crushed their opponents in 29 minutes, closing out the game with a 10-2 kill lead and a staggering 13,000 gold advantage.

Game 3: HLE Takes Full Control

With momentum on their side, HLE continued their dominance, suffocating KC in every lane. They dictated the pace, forcing KC into disadvantageous fights, and after a 26-minute match with a 28-11 kill lead, HLE secured a decisive victory, taking a 2-1 series lead.

Game 4: A Flawless Finish by HLE

The final game saw HLE playing at their peak, displaying discipline and precision. They built an early lead, denying KC any map control and shutting down their win conditions. With no kills or turrets taken by KC until the late game, HLE dominated the Rift. In a 35-minute siege, they secured a 22-10 kill lead, destroyed KC’s Nexus, and clinched the championship title.

A Historic Victory for Hanwha Life Esports

With this 3-1 grand final victory, Hanwha Life Esports not only secures its first international title but also becomes the inaugural First Stand champion. Their $300,000 prize marks a significant milestone in their journey, establishing them as a force to be reckoned with on the international stage.

Meanwhile, Karmine Corp’s impressive debut run earns them second place and a $225,000 prize, proving they are a rising contender in international League of Legends.

HLE’s triumph at First Stand sets the stage for an exciting 2025 season—what’s next for the new champions? 🎮🏆