A last-minute trade is set to reshape the LCK, as Nam “Diable” Dae-geun has reportedly finalized a move to Nongshim RedForce on April 30, just hours before the Round 2 roster lock, following his sudden demotion and exit from BNK FearX earlier this week.
According to Daily Esports, the deal is a direct swap, with Kim “Taeyoon” Tae-yoon heading to BNK FearX. While neither side has formally announced the transfer yet, the report indicates both teams rushed to complete and submit the paperwork before the league’s cutoff time.
The move comes after a turbulent stretch for Diable, who was demoted to the second roster after missing a scheduled fan meeting. BNK FearX also cited repeated internal issues and a failure to meet team responsibilities, which ultimately led to the breakdown in relations and opened the door for a transfer.
Despite the off-stage controversy, Diable has been one of the most impressive rookies in the LCK this season. During the LCK Cup, the foxes made their way to the finals, where they faced Gen.G, who also qualified for FST 2026. His departure leaves a big gap in BNK FearX’s lineup as they juggle their midlaners and bring back their academy ADC Kim “Slayer” Jin-young to fill the gap.
On the other hand, Nongshim RedForce gains a timely boost as they look to stabilize their roster heading into the second round. The team currently sits at 4-5 in the mid-table, and the addition of Diable alongside veteran support Son “Lehends” Si-woo could give them a stronger shot at upsetting the league’s top teams.
Under LCK rules, standard signings after roster lock would have delayed his eligibility until the third round. A completed trade before the May 1 deadline, however, allows him to be fielded immediately once the move is approved.
League regulations also prohibit trades from the start of Round 2 until the end of the Road to MSI period, leaving only a narrow window for both organizations to finalize terms. That urgency appears to have accelerated negotiations, with the reported agreement coming together just in time.
All eyes will now be on how quickly Diable settles into Nongshim RedForce, with the move potentially shaping both teams’ fortunes heading into the next phase of the LCK season.
