World Championship semi-finalist Kranich joins Dignitas

Team Dignitas is continuing to expand its Hearthstone division, picking up World Championship semi-finalist Hakjun “Kranich” Baek of Korea.

The move follows the signing of Keaton “Chakki” Gill as its first foreign signing earlier this month, joining the trio of British players that had previously made up the team.

Baek had an impressive campaign at the inaugural World Championships back in November, defeating Dignitas’ own James “Greensheep” Luo, tournament favorite Aleksandr “Kolento” Malsh of Cloud9, and eventual winner James “Firebat” Kostesich, before losing in the semi-finals to Wang “TiddlerCelestial” Xieyu.

Despite his success in the World Championships, Baek has not appeared in any notable tournaments since, though he did take part in the second China vs. Korea Masters tournament in a losing effort against Lei “Island” Qiang.

Baek joins a select few players from the Asian Hearthstone scene who are signed to Western teams. Back in December, Baek’s former Golden Coin team-mate Jung-Hwan “RenieHouR” Lee joined SK Gaming.

“As an esports fan, Team Dignitas has always been a fantastic place for me,” Baek said in a statement on Dignitas’ website, “I clearly remember great players and memorable matches from the team. Actually it is hard to believe I have become a member of it. Now I understand what ‘the dream came true’ means.

“I hope to improve myself as a pro-player and achieve tournament titles with Dignitas as much as I can.”