Shin, who turned professional at the young age of 12, has consistently demonstrated exceptional skill and strategic prowess throughout his career. He first reached the number one ranking in Korea in November 2018 and has held the top spot continuously since January 2020. His exceptional performance has earned him the nickname “shintelligence,” a testament to his precise reading of the game and high accuracy percentage in gameplay, often attributed to his extensive study with artificial intelligence (AI). This approach sets him apart from many other players, as he seamlessly integrates AI insights into his strategic thinking.
In the final match of the LG Cup, Shin faced off against fellow Korean player Byun Sangil 9-dan, a formidable opponent with a GoRatings rating of 3648 as of 2024-05-06. While details of Byun Sangil’s prior achievements were not readily available, his high ranking and presence in the LG Cup final speak to his considerable skill and competitive standing in the world of Go. Shin secured a decisive 2-0 victory against Byun, showcasing his mastery of the game. This win adds to his already impressive list of achievements, which includes victories in the following major international tournaments:
- LG Cup: 2020, 2022, and 2024
- Chunlan Cup: 2021
- Samsung Cup: 2022
- Ing Cup: 2023
- Quzhou-Lanke Cup: 2024
He also won the Asian TV Cup in June 2019, defeating Ding Hao.
Shin’s dominance in the Go world is undeniable. He has been the highest-rated player globally since 2019, consistently outperforming his rivals in both rating and head-to-head scores. His remarkable achievements draw comparisons to legendary players like Lee Chang-ho, who dominated the Go scene for many years. With his consistent top ranking, numerous titles, and impressive win rate, Shin is on track to become one of the all-time greats in the history of Go.
Shin’s success is not solely attributed to his natural talent. He is known for his controlled and steady playing style, honed through years of dedicated practice and analysis, often incorporating AI insights into his training regimen. The use of AI in Go is revolutionizing the game, allowing players like Shin to analyze positions, explore new strategies, and refine their decision-making with unprecedented precision. This integration of AI into Go training and analysis has the potential to reshape the future of the game and push the boundaries of human Go playing to new heights.
The LG Cup, established in 1996, is one of the most prestigious international Go tournaments. Shin’s victory in this esteemed competition further solidifies his position at the pinnacle of the Go world. His continued success inspires aspiring Go players worldwide and contributes to the growing popularity of this ancient and intellectually stimulating game.
