Derick Elomina discovered poker at 14, playing home games with his high school friends. What began as a pastime quickly grew into a passion that shaped his career. By 21, he entered the poker industry as a field reporter — just old enough to step foot inside the casino. Starting as a hand reporter, he steadily honed his craft, blending sharp observation with growing writing skills. Known for his dedication, he constantly roams the floor to capture the action, conduct interviews, and deliver live updates. With a strong commitment to the game and a passion for telling poker’s stories, Derick continues to build his path in the industry.

Updated: 2026.01.07

Keliang Xie is a Chinese professional poker player who has quickly made a name for himself in the competitive South Korean poker scene, particularly at the high-stakes festivals in Jeju. He is recognized as a rising regular in major regional tours, including the K Poker Cup (KPC) and Lord of Poker Tour (LPT).

Career Earnings & Biggest Results

According to The Hendon Mob, Keliang Xie has been actively climbing the ranks with consistent performances in early 2026. His most recent notable result occurred at the KPC x LPT Series 2026 in Jeju, where he competed in the Jeju Opening event featuring a buy-in of KRW 900,000.

He has demonstrated a strong ability to navigate the unique fields of the Asian circuit, frequently participating in events at prestigious venues like the LES A Casino. While his career is still in its early stages compared to veteran high rollers, his high volume of play in mid-to-high stakes tournaments has significantly contributed to his status on the China All Time Money List.

Biography & Poker Background

Originally from China, Xie has shifted his primary focus to the booming poker hubs of East Asia, with a heavy emphasis on the South Korean market. He has become a familiar fixture at the Jeju Poker Festival, where he often battles against the region’s elite grinders and international visitors.

Xie’s career trajectory shows a transition from local games to the professional international circuit, where he now follows the major tours such as the WPT, APT, and regional series like the Super Cup. His commitment to the “poker nomad” lifestyle is evident in his frequent appearances at high-profile stops across Asia’s luxury casino resorts.

Play Style & Strategy

Keliang Xie is known for a modern, aggressive play style that is well-suited for the fast-paced dynamics of Asian tournament fields. He is particularly effective in the early stages of tournaments, using his stack to apply maximum pressure and build a lead heading into the money bubble.

His strategic approach involves a high level of adaptability, allowing him to shift gears between patient accumulation and relentless aggression at the final table. This tactical versatility makes him a difficult opponent to read and has been a key factor in his ability to secure deep runs in large-field events like the KPC series.

Recent Attendances