Biography:
Kim Se-yeon, better known as Geguri, is a professional Overwatch player from South Korea. Born on June 26, 1999, Geguri gained international attention for her remarkable precision in mouse movements. Her journey to becoming one of the most renowned female gamers in the world has been marked by obstacles, triumphs, and a profound influence on the gaming community.
Geguri’s fascination with Overwatch, a first-person shooter video game, began even before its release. She was captivated by the game’s cinematic trailers, which ignited her desire to be a part of the competitive gaming world. As a naturally talented player, Geguri quickly garnered a reputation in South Korea, particularly for her exceptional skills with the Overwatch character Zarya. Her impeccable aim and consistent victories made her a force to be reckoned with.
Shortly after diving into the world of Overwatch, Geguri earned an invitation to join UW Artisan, an amateur Overwatch team. This opportunity allowed her to showcase her abilities on a larger stage and solidify her place among the best players in the country. As she climbed the ranks, Geguri became widely recognized as one of the top Zarya players, gaining admiration for her accuracy and impressive win ratio.
In June 2016, Geguri found herself at the center of a cheating controversy during an official tournament. Two professional players, known as ELTA and Strobe from team Dizzyness, accused her of using aimbot software. They claimed that Geguri’s mouse movements were too precise to be humanly possible. The accusations quickly gained traction, fueled by a post on an online forum that purportedly provided evidence of her cheating. Additionally, the two players threatened to quit Overwatch if Geguri were proven innocent.
Forever determined to prove her skills and defend her reputation, Geguri took matters into her own hands. She live-streamed her gameplay from a monitored studio provided by a Korean eSports website. The stream showcased her extraordinary mouse movements, leaving no room for doubt about her abilities. As a result, both players who had accused her of cheating quit the competitive scene, though one later returned under a new username. Blizzard Entertainment, the developer of Overwatch, also confirmed that Geguri had not utilized any aim assist software.
The controversy surrounding Geguri turned her into an overnight sensation. Her victory over baseless accusations brought her global recognition and heightened anticipation for her professional career. In 2016, Geguri joined EHOME Spear, a professional team. However, the team disbanded before it had the chance to compete in the prestigious APEX tournament, leaving Geguri in search of a new team.
ROX Orcas became her next destination in the competitive Overwatch scene. Despite her undeniable talent, Geguri faced significant challenges as a female player in a predominantly male-dominated industry. She fought against gender bias and stereotypes, paving the way for other aspiring female gamers. Whether it was dealing with online harassment or battling against preconceived notions, Geguri’s resilience and determination served as an inspiration for women across the world.
In 2018, Geguri made history by becoming the first female player in the Overwatch League. She joined the Shanghai Dragons, a team that recognized her exceptional skills and the impact she had already made on the gaming community. Geguri’s inclusion in the league symbolized a significant milestone for women in esports, breaking down gender barriers and encouraging greater inclusivity within the gaming industry.
Geguri’s achievements and contributions earned her a place among Time magazine’s 2019 Next Generation Leaders. Her perseverance, skill, and ability to defy expectations have made her an icon for aspiring female gamers and a catalyst for change within the gaming community. Geguri’s journey continues to inspire and empower others, proving that dedication, talent, and resilience can transcend gender and redefine what is possible in the world of competitive gaming.