When news of Kim “Alarm” Kyeong-Bo’s sudden death on Sunday evening spread through the Overwatch community, members came forward to share their feelings about the 20-year-old Overwatch League star.
“I’m heartbroken. Alarm was like a little brother to me. The kid was genuinely cracked at Overwatch and an incredible teammate to work with,” said Gael “Poko” Gouzerch, who played with Alarm on the Philadelphia Fusion. “I’ve got so many good memories with you. I’ll miss your positive attitude and our gym sessions together. Rest In Peace, Love you Kyeong-Bo.”
Alarm’s memory lives on
A phenomenal player during his time in the Overwatch League and Contenders, Alarm won rookie of the year during his first season, in 2020. NYXL general manager Yo-han “nuGget“ Kim tweeted that Alarm’s mother wants him to be remembered as the good player he was.
“Alarm’s mother said that she’d like everyone to remember her son as a good player,” NuGget said, as confirmed by a translator. “I will absolutely remember that.”
Alarm was much more than a skilled Overwatch flex support player. He was an inspiration, a positive influence and a joy to be around for teammates like Poko, Daniel “FunnyAstro” Hathaway, Niclas “sHockWave“ Jensen and others.
“Not sure what to feel or say right now, lost the most positive person today,” sHockWave said in a tweet. “Even though our time together in Korea was short, it feels like we’ve been close for a much longer time.”
Alarm’s impact spread beyond that of his own team, too. Fusion fans, casters and other members of the Overwatch community anticipated his arrival on the Fusion in 2020. They knew he was going to be a star and expressed heartbreak after learning he has passed.
this man deserved the world pic.twitter.com/Py9cY07FTF
— charlie ! (@azuralikespatd) November 8, 2021
“I feel a mixture of emotions right now. I’m deeply saddened by his passing but also upset that someone with so much more to give to the world was taken from us so early,” said Overwatch League caster Brennon Hook. “He achieved so much at such a young age that there was no ceiling on what he may have aimed for in the future. He inspired those around him with his drive to be the best and left a real tangible mark on the Overwatch scene. He will be deeply missed and my thoughts go out to his friends and family”
Overwatch fans are hoping to see the league honor Alarm in a similar way to Dennis “INTERNETHULK” Hawelka, an Overwatch player and coach who passed away on Nov. 8, 2017 due to an enlarged heart. The Overwatch League honors him through the The Dennis Hawelka Award, which is awarded to the player who has a positive impact on their community each year.
