This is how the game went. Success for Black.

Wang Xi explains the Korean approach as being based on a different kind of calculation. A deep invasion like this only works if the invader can live. The modern Korean player is prepared to take a chance by estimating his chances of living rather more flexibly than all or nothing. If he judges the overall game is level and the chances of living are 50%, he might well play the deep invasion. If he estimates his chances of living are 55%, he will probably play the invasion, reasoning that the extra percentage points actually constitute an advantage he should cash in. If he thinks he is behind he will almost certainly invade, of course.

Obviously Wang says rather more about the topic. For example, he frames the above remarks in the context of a game where the two players are of equal strength and experience. The implication is that he would naturally adapt his strategy if he was playing someone with a different level of experience or skill. That is, at any rate, precisely what we would expect of a pro.

Another implication there is that the young Chinese are following the Korean style. The older Chinese who sucked the Japanese style dry as they succeeded in their historic quest to "beat the Japanese 9-dans" are being left behind just as much as the whole regiment of Japanese pros.

<< Previous    Next >>