Kim “QO” Sun Yeob is a well-known professional Dota 2 player, recognized for his aggressive playstyle and significant contributions to the competitive scene. His journey from a casual DotA player in Australia to a top-tier competitor on the international stage showcases his dedication, Perseverance, and skill. With a career spanning multiple teams and high-stakes tournaments, QO has left a lasting impact on the Dota 2 esports landscape. This in-depth article explores his biography, career achievements, famous plays, and what lies ahead for this talented player.
Biography and Early Career – The Origins of QO
Kim Sun Yeob, known as QO in the Dota 2 community, was born on September 22, 1993, in South Korea. His introduction to DotA came through a man from his church, who played games with him every Sunday. Initially, the game frustrated QO due to frequent deaths, but he persisted and refined his skills. His older brother also played an important role in his early gaming experience, although their matches were often competitive, with playful yet frustrating moments, such as being eliminated by his brother’s Lion with the infamous Finger of Death.
Transition to Dota 2 – The Birth of a Pro Player
As Dota 2 emerged as the successor to DotA, QO embraced the game under the username “RoastedKimchi” during his time in Australia. However, due to platform limitations, he shortened it to “QO,” unaware that this would become his legendary gamer tag. Interestingly, typing “QO” on a Korean keyboard produces the phrase “don’t back,” an apt reflection of his fearless and aggressive in-game playstyle.
Professional Career – From AkmA to MVP Phoenix
AkmA and Early Competitive Days
QO’s professional Dota 2 career officially started in 2013 when he joined the Australian-based team AkmA. His talent quickly caught the attention of regional organizations, leading to his move to FXOpen e-Sports inJune 2013. Alongside renowned players such as March, Febby, and Sagun, he competed in the Nexon Starter League Season 1, securing victory against EoT Hammer in the grand finals.
Joining MVP Phoenix – The Rise to International Stardom
After short stints with FXOpen and his own team, 5inQ, QO joined MVP Phoenix in 2014. This marked the beginning of his professional peak, as MVP Phoenix became one of South Korea’s most dominant teams. Under QO’s leadership and aggressive core plays, the team achieved remarkable milestones, including qualifying for Starladder StarSeries IX, a major international event.
Major Achievements with MVP Phoenix
- Dota Pit League Season 4 (2016) – QO played a crucial role in MVP Phoenix’s championship run.
- WePlay Dota2 League Season 3 (2016) – Another major victory solidified MVP Phoenix’s status.
- The International 2015 – Finished in the 7-8th position, marking MVP Phoenix as a rising force.
- The International 2016 – A top 5-6 finish with QO’s iconic Templar Assassin plays.
Later Years – Fnatic, Immortals, and Beyond
Following MVP Phoenix’s disbandment, QO transitioned to Fnatic, where he continued competing at a high level. Later, he joined Immortals alongside former teammates but the team struggled to replicate MVP’s dominance. In January 2018, QO took a break from professional play to focus on his studies in Australia, later forming Team Oracle in 2019.
Famous Playstyle and Signature Heroes
QO’s playstyle has always been defined by aggression and a relentless approach to fights. He believes individual skill is crucial in Dota 2, emphasizing the ability to outplay opponents regardless of the draft.
Signature Heroes
- Templar Assassin – QO’s TA was feared, capable of snowballing and dismantling teams single-handedly.
- Phantom Assassin – Widely respected for his clutch plays and calculated aggression.
- Ember Spirit – A hero that complemented his aggressive gameplay, enabling fast rotations and dives.
Post-Playing Career – From Player to Analyst
Following his break from competitive play, QO transitioned into analytical roles. As of recent years, he served as an analyst for T1, contributing his deep game knowledge to strategic discussions.
How to Play Like QO – A Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Master Aggression
Understanding when to apply pressure is crucial. Study QO’s games to learn how he forces opponents into bad trades.
Step 2: Perfect Your Last-Hitting
QO’s laning phase is sharp. Practicing last-hitting mechanics is essential to holding an advantage against opponents.
Step 3: Be Fearless in Team Fights
QO’s philosophy emphasizes fearlessness. Engage decisively if your team can back you up.
Step 4: Efficient Farming and Rotations
Even with an aggressive playstyle, QO maximizes farm efficiency. Learn to balance fights and creep score.
Step 5: Study Replays and Improve Mechanics
Watching replays, particularly MVP Phoenix games, can help you understand how QO approaches different matchups.
FAQs – QO and His Dota 2 Legacy
Who is QO in Dota 2?
QO is a professional Dota 2 player from South Korea known for his aggressive playstyle and success with MVP Phoenix.
What teams did QO play for?
QO played for MVP Phoenix, Fnatic, Immortals, and Team Oracle during his career.
What is QO’s most famous hero?
Templar Assassin is widely regarded as QO’s most iconic hero due to his dominant performances.
Has QO won any major tournaments?
Yes, he won tournaments such as Dota Pit League Season 4 and WePlay Dota2 League Season 3.
Why did QO take a break from Dota 2?
QO took a break in 2018 to focus on his studies in Australia before later returning.
What is QO’s playstyle?
QO is known for a hyper-aggressive playstyle, often forcing enemies into disadvantageous fights.
Did QO ever place high at The International?
Yes, MVP Phoenix secured a 5-6th place finish at The International 2016 under his leadership.
Has QO transitioned into an analyst role?
Yes, after retiring, QO worked as an analyst for T1’s Dota 2 team.
How did QO get his nickname?
QO’s name was chosen randomly but coincidentally resembles a face and means “don’t back” in Korean typing.
What is QO’s impact on the Dota 2 scene?
QO’s influence is immense, bringing South Korean representation to the global Dota 2 competitive landscape.
Conclusion – The Legacy of QO
QO’s career has been an inspiring one, from his humble beginnings in Australia to competing at the highest level of Dota 2. His aggressive playstyle, dedication to individual skill, and leadership within MVP Phoenix cement his place among the game’s distinguished players. Whether as a competitor, mentor, or analyst, QO’s influence on the Dota 2 community is undeniable.
