Maru

Cho 'Maru' Seong-ju is widely regarded as one of the greatest StarCraft II players of all time. Born on July 28, 1997, in South Korea, Maru began his professional career at just 13 years old, becoming the youngest player ever to compete in the Global StarCraft II League (GSL). His early entry into competitive play set the stage for a remarkable career that would span over a decade.

Maru's playstyle is characterized by exceptional mechanics, aggressive tactics, and innovative strategies. He earned the nickname 'Marine Prince' for his mastery of Terran bio play, particularly his ability to micro-manage marine, marauder, and medivac (MMM) compositions. His aggressive early-game pressure and ability to transition into powerful mid and late-game strategies have made him a formidable opponent across all matchups.

Throughout his career, Maru has achieved numerous milestones. He is the only player to win the Code S, OSL (OnGameNet StarLeague), and SSL (StarCraft II StarLeague) triple crown, cementing his status as a versatile champion across different tournament formats. His seven Code S championships are a record in the StarCraft II scene, demonstrating his consistency at the highest level of competition.

Maru's rivalry with other top players, particularly Serral and INnoVation, has produced some of the most exciting matches in StarCraft II history. His 2018 dominance, where he won three consecutive GSL championships, is considered one of the most impressive runs in the game's competitive history. He has also represented South Korea in international competitions, including the World Team League and various World Championship Series events.

Beyond his individual achievements, Maru has been a key player for his teams, including Prime, Jin Air Green Wings, and currently Team Vitality. His leadership and consistency have made him a valuable asset in team leagues like Proleague, where he has maintained exceptional records throughout his career.

Maru's impact on the StarCraft II scene extends beyond his tournament results. He has inspired a generation of Terran players with his innovative builds and aggressive playstyle. His ability to adapt to meta changes and consistently perform at the highest level has earned him respect from fans and fellow professionals alike.

Despite facing challenges, including mandatory military service in South Korea, Maru has maintained his position as one of the top players in the world. His dedication to the game and continuous improvement have allowed him to remain competitive even as the StarCraft II scene has evolved over the years.

As of 2026, Maru continues to compete at the highest level, representing Team Vitality. His longevity in the competitive scene, combined with his numerous achievements and influence on the game, solidifies his legacy as a true StarCraft II legend.