ALGS champion SangJoon announces Apex Legends retirement

Apex Legends Global Series (ALGS) champion Han ‘SangJoon’ Sang-joon has announced that he will be retiring from the competitive scene.

SangJoon leaves the ALGS scene after four years of professional play, stating that his departure is primarily due to compulsory military service in South Korea.

In a rough translation of a post online, SangJoon said: “I’ve decided to retire from the next pro league. There are many reasons for this, but the biggest one is that I have to enlist in the military soon.”

The South Korean player has enjoyed a successful esports career within the ALGS since 2021. He has played with multiple well-known organisations, including his recent tenure with Asian representatives Crazy Raccoon and REJECT in the past year.

Arguably, his most notable achievement includes winning the 2024 ALGS Split 1 Playoffs with REJECT, helping his team win $300,000 (~£221,900) in prize funds, alongside being awarded the event’s MVP. REJECT began the tournament placing fifth in the Group Stage, but eventually found its footing in the Finals after placing first in games two and eight, winning the tournament with 86 points in total.

In 2025, his highest feat was climbing to eighth place out of 30 teams during the ALGS APAC North Split 1 Pro League as part of Crazy Raccoon. After reaching the Mid-Season Playoffs, Crazy Raccoon placed 32nd overall, leaving with $4,500 (~£3,300) in winnings.

‘I’ve said many times that I’m retiring, but this time it’s true, so I’m really sad that I won’t be able to see you all,” SangJoon added in rough translation. “Thanks for your support. I was able to go to the playoffs and win, which is really great. Thank you for everything!”

As a result, SangJoon will not participate in Apex Legends tournaments in the foreseeable future. This includes upcoming events such as the 2025 Split 2 Pro League and Challenger Circuits running from August to October, and the ALGS 2026 Championship taking place from January 15th to 18th, 2026.