APT Jeju 2026: Teeraphat Rangkatekarn Triumphs in Super High Roller

The poker spotlight is currently on South Korea as the Asian Poker Tour (APT) visits the Les A Casino on Jeju Island. Since the start on September 25, 2026, it has become evident that the region is a massive draw for high rollers from across the globe. The focal point of the opening days was the Super High Roller event, which, with a buy-in of KRW 15 million (approximately €9,700), attracted the elite to the tables. Thailand's Teeraphat Rangkatekarn emerged victorious in this high-stakes environment, taking home the title and the silver Lion Trophy.

The tournament significantly exceeded initial expectations. While the organizers guaranteed a prize pool of KRW 500 million, 67 unique starters and 32 re-entries created a total pool of KRW 1,368,427,500. This equates to €886,845. Rangkatekarn demonstrated his dominance as early as Day 1, finishing as the chip leader with 3,425,000 chips. He left behind notable competitors such as US pro Calvin Lee and the well-known Christian Harder. In the end, 13 players shared the prize money, with the victory serving as a long-awaited validation for the Thai player.

Numbers and facts

The final table featured an international lineup, highlighting the global reach of APT Jeju 2026. Teeraphat Rangkatekarn secured first place with €230,499 (KRW 355,667,500). Second place went to American Calvin Lee, who received €161,585. Christian Harder, also from the USA, took third place for €106,699. German participation was also noted, although Fabian Gumz, who ended Day 1 fourth in chips with 1,565,000, missed out on the top payouts at the final table. In total, 135 different events are being held during the series on Jeju, with buy-ins ranging from €130 to €24,000.

"Firstly, thank you to all the staff and APT for making a good event. For me, I think I feel like it’s been waiting for me for a long time." - Teeraphat Rangkatekarn, Winner of the Super High Roller at APT Jeju 2026

Background

The Asian Poker Tour has evolved into a serious competitor for established brands like the EPT or WSOP in recent years. The Jeju location in South Korea, particularly the Les A Casino at Jeju Shinhwa World, provides a luxurious backdrop that attracts both Asian and international pros. The Super High Roller event was the second-largest of its kind in APT Korea history. Simultaneously, the Korea National Cup took place, attracting 262 players. This victory was claimed by Malaysian Lee Wee Liew, who earned €45,582 for his success. The series runs until October 7, 2026, allowing for further exciting developments at the tables.

Why it matters for German players

For German poker players following such international successes, the legal situation at home is often a primary concern. In Germany, online poker is strictly regulated by the State Treaty on Gambling 2021 (GlüStV 2021). Anyone wishing to play legally must use providers listed on the official whitelist of the Joint Gambling Authority of the States (GGL). These platforms are subject to strict player protection requirements. These include a cross-provider deposit limit of €1,000 per month and the central monitoring system LUGAS. While tournaments like the one in Jeju allow high buy-ins, online slots in Germany are limited to a €1 stake per spin. German pros participating in international high-roller events must also ensure their winnings are correctly taxed if they play professionally.

What it means for GGL-licensed casinos

The popularity of such live events shows GGL-licensed operators in Germany that there is significant interest in competitive poker. However, licensed providers are prohibited from competing with unregulated offers from Malta or Curacao, which often advertise higher limits and more aggressive bonuses. The GGL strictly monitors poker advertising to ensure it is not misleading and does not provide incentives for gambling addiction. While international series like the APT in Jeju advertise millions, the focus in Germany remains on game integrity and consumer protection. Whitelisted operators must ensure all player identities are verified to prevent money laundering and ensure youth protection.