Go players - AbsoluteAstronomy.com

This page gives an overview of well-known players of the game of Go
Go (board game)
Go , is an ancient board game for two players that originated in China more than 2,000 years ago...

throughout the ages. The page has been divided into sections based on the era in which the Go players played and the country in which they played. As this was not necessarily their country of birth, a flag of that country precedes every player's name. For a complete list of player articles, see :Category:Go players.

The important dates that this separation is based on are:

The establishment of the Four go houses
Four go houses
In the history of go in Japan, the Four go houses were the four academies of Go instituted, supported, and controlled by the state, at the beginning of the Tokugawa shogunate. At roughly the same time shogi was organised into three houses. Here 'house' implies institution run on the recognised...

at the start of the Tokugawa Shogunate
Tokugawa shogunate
The Tokugawa shogunate, also known as the and the , was a feudal regime of Japan established by Tokugawa Ieyasu and ruled by the shoguns of the Tokugawa family. This period is known as the Edo period and gets its name from the capital city, Edo, which is now called Tokyo, after the name was...

.
The demise of the houses in the Meiji Period
Meiji period
The , also known as the Meiji era, is a Japanese era which extended from September 1868 through July 1912. This period represents the first half of the Empire of Japan.- Meiji Restoration and the emperor :...

(end 19th century) followed by their replacement by the Nihon Kiin in 1924.
The start of international tournament Go in 1989

A Japanese census on go players performed in 2002 estimates that over 24 million people worldwide play go, most of whom live in Asia. Most of the players listed on this page are professionals, though some top level amateurs have been included. Players famous for achievements outside Go are listed in their own section.

17th through 19th century

In the 17th, 18th and 19th century, Go was popular in both Japan (Edo period

Edo period

The , or , is a division of Japanese history which was ruled by the shoguns of the Tokugawa family, running from 1603 to 1868. The political entity of this period was the Tokugawa shogunate....

) and China (period of the Qing Dynasty

Qing Dynasty

The Qing Dynasty was the last dynasty of China, ruling from 1644 to 1912 with a brief, abortive restoration in 1917. It was preceded by the Ming Dynasty and followed by the Republic of China....

). In Korea, a Go variant called Sunjang baduk was played.

Japan

At the start of the Tokugawa Shogunate

Tokugawa shogunate

The Tokugawa shogunate, also known as the and the , was a feudal regime of Japan established by Tokugawa Ieyasu and ruled by the shoguns of the Tokugawa family. This period is known as the Edo period and gets its name from the capital city, Edo, which is now called Tokyo, after the name was...

, four go academies

Four go houses

In the history of go in Japan, the Four go houses were the four academies of Go instituted, supported, and controlled by the state, at the beginning of the Tokugawa shogunate. At roughly the same time shogi was organised into three houses. Here 'house' implies institution run on the recognised...

were established. This table lists all heads of these houses, as well as some that were appointed heir but died before they became head of the house. Tokugawa also established the post of Godokoro

Godokoro

is a title that was given in Japan from the beginning of the Edo period until the Meiji Restoration. In that period it was the highest official standing that could be attained by a go player. Literally it is a metonym, meaning the 'go office'....

(minister of go), which was awarded to the strongest player of a generation. Such players were dubbed Meijin

Meijin

Meijin , literally translated, means "Brilliant Man." It is the name of the second most prestigious Japanese Go Tournament. It also refers to a traditional Japanese title given to the strongest player of the day during the Edo period.- The tournament :...

(brilliant man), which was considered equal to a 9 dan professional grade. Over the 300 year period covered here, only ten players received the title of Meijin. Several other players (16 total) received the title of Jun-Meijin (half-Meijin), which is considered to equal an 8 dan professional grade and listed as such below. In some houses it was the custom that the head of the house was always named the same according to the iemoto

Iemoto

Iemoto is a Japanese term used to refer to the founder or current head master of a certain school of traditional Japanese art...

system (家元). All heads of the house Inoue

Inoue

Inoue is the 17th most common Japanese surname. It can also be romanized as Inouye.- People :In politics or business:...

(井上) were named Inseki (因碩), heads of the house Yasui

Yasui

The Yasui house was one of the four Schools of Go which were officially recognized during the Edo period of Japanese history.Each of the four schools were founded by Tokugawa Ieyas in 1612.The house had one Meijin, in Sanchi...

(安井 ) were name Senkaku

Senkaku

Senkaku can refer to:* Senkaku Islands, disputed territory named "Diaoyu" or "Diaoyutai Islands" in Chinese, also known as "Pinnacle Islands", a Japanese Buddhist priest, the head of the Yasui school of Go, which was established in 1612...

(仙角) from the 4th head onward, and heads of the house Hayashi

Hayashi

Hayashi , is a common Japanese surname.-People:*Asuka Hayashi *Chūshirō Hayashi *Hayashi Fubo *Hayashi Fumiko *Fumio Hayashi *Hayashi Fusao...

(林) were named Monnyu (門入) from the second head onward. To distinguish between these players, the names listed below are the names they had before becoming head of their house, or after their retirement. The house Honinbo

Honinbo

Honinbō was the name of one of the four major schools of Go in Japan. Easily the strongest school of Go for most of its existence, it was established in 1612 and survived until 1940....

(本因坊) had no such tradition, although heads would often take one character from the name of their predecessor into their own name, notably the character Shu (秀) from the 14th head onward.

Name	DOB–DOD	Peak rank^*	Notes
Honinbo Sansa Honinbo Sansa Honinbō Sansa was the assumed name of Kanō Yosaburō , one of the strongest Japanese Go players of the Edo period , and founder of the house of Honinbō, first among the four great schools of Go in Japan... (本因坊算砂)	1559–1623	Meijin Meijin Meijin , literally translated, means "Brilliant Man." It is the name of the second most prestigious Japanese Go Tournament. It also refers to a traditional Japanese title given to the strongest player of the day during the Edo period.- The tournament :... , 9 dan	Founder and first head of the house Honinbo Honinbo Honinbō was the name of one of the four major schools of Go in Japan. Easily the strongest school of Go for most of its existence, it was established in 1612 and survived until 1940.... .
Nakamura Doseki Nakamura Doseki Nakamura Dōseki was a Japanese professional go player. Tradition counts him as the founder of the Inoue house. This was in fact a retrospective inclusion, essentially a fabrication of the early nineteenth century by Inoue Genan Inseki. It accounts for the name Inoue Nakamura Dōseki sometimes... (中村道碩)	1582–1630	Meijin Meijin Meijin , literally translated, means "Brilliant Man." It is the name of the second most prestigious Japanese Go Tournament. It also refers to a traditional Japanese title given to the strongest player of the day during the Edo period.- The tournament :... , 9 dan	Retrospectively seen as founder of the house Inoue Inoue Inoue is the 17th most common Japanese surname. It can also be romanized as Inouye.- People :In politics or business:... .
Hayashi Monnyusai (林門入斉)	1583–1667	7 or 8 dan	Founder and first head of the house Hayashi Hayashi Hayashi , is a common Japanese surname.-People:Asuka Hayashi Chūshirō Hayashi Hayashi Fubo Hayashi Fumiko Fumio Hayashi Hayashi Fusao... .
Yasui Santetsu (安井算哲)	1589–1652	8 dan	Founder and first head of the house Yasui Yasui The Yasui house was one of the four Schools of Go which were officially recognized during the Edo period of Japanese history.Each of the four schools were founded by Tokugawa Ieyas in 1612.The house had one Meijin, in Sanchi... .
Inoue Genkaku (井上玄覚)	1605–1673	7 dan	First head of the Inoue house on the unrevised numbering (not counting Nakamura Doseki Nakamura Doseki Nakamura Dōseki was a Japanese professional go player. Tradition counts him as the founder of the Inoue house. This was in fact a retrospective inclusion, essentially a fabrication of the early nineteenth century by Inoue Genan Inseki. It accounts for the name Inoue Nakamura Dōseki sometimes... ).
Honinbo Sanetsu Honinbo Sanetsu Hon'inbō Sanetsu was a professional Go player, and second head of the Honinbo house.- Biography :Sanetsu was the second Honinbo. A minor at the time of Honinbo Sansa's death, he inherited a difficult situation since he could not receive the official allowance for the house... (本因坊道悦)	1611–1658	8 dan	Second head of the house Honinbo Honinbo Honinbō was the name of one of the four major schools of Go in Japan. Easily the strongest school of Go for most of its existence, it was established in 1612 and survived until 1940.... , Jun-Meijin.
Yasui Sanchi Yasui Sanchi Yasui Sanchi was a Japanese professional go player, and second head of the Yasui house.He became Meijin-godokoro in 1668. It has always been said that this promotion was achieved by a backstairs route, with influence exerted by the head of the Matsudaira clan... (安井算知)	1617–1703	Meijin Meijin Meijin , literally translated, means "Brilliant Man." It is the name of the second most prestigious Japanese Go Tournament. It also refers to a traditional Japanese title given to the strongest player of the day during the Edo period.- The tournament :... , 9 dan	Second head of the house Yasui Yasui The Yasui house was one of the four Schools of Go which were officially recognized during the Edo period of Japanese history.Each of the four schools were founded by Tokugawa Ieyas in 1612.The house had one Meijin, in Sanchi... .
Honinbo Doetsu Honinbo Doetsu Hon'inbō Dōetsu was a Japanese professional go player, who became the third head of the Honinbo house. His surname was Niwa, and he used a Buddhist name Nissho.-Biography:... (本因坊道悦)	1636–1727	7 dan	Third head of the house Honinbo Honinbo Honinbō was the name of one of the four major schools of Go in Japan. Easily the strongest school of Go for most of its existence, it was established in 1612 and survived until 1940.... .
Honinbo Dosaku Honinbo Dosaku Hon'inbō Dōsaku was a professional go player.- Biography :Dōsaku was one of the greatest go players in history. He was born in the Iwami province of Japan and studied Go in the Hon'inbō school, becoming Meijin at a very young age.... (本因坊道策)	1645–1702	Meijin Meijin Meijin , literally translated, means "Brilliant Man." It is the name of the second most prestigious Japanese Go Tournament. It also refers to a traditional Japanese title given to the strongest player of the day during the Edo period.- The tournament :... , 9 dan	Fourth head of the house Honinbo. One of the greatest players of all time, and the first Kisei Kisei The Kisei is a Go competition. The title, meaning go sage in Japanese, was a traditional honorary appellation given to a handful of players down the centuries. The element ki can also apply to shogi, and there were also recognized kisei in the shogi world.-Background:Kisei is a Go competition... (go saint); an important influence on go theory.
Honinbo Doteki Honinbo Doteki Honinbo Doteki , also known as Ogawa Doteki, was a professional Japanese Go player.- Biography :By the time Doteki was 13, he was regarded as one of the best players, and became heir to Honinbo Dosaku, his teacher. Still only 13, he had already reached 6 dan. He played in his first Castle Games in... (本因坊道的)	1669–1690	7 dan	Heir to the house Honinbo Honinbo Honinbō was the name of one of the four major schools of Go in Japan. Easily the strongest school of Go for most of its existence, it was established in 1612 and survived until 1940.... . Was considered an extremely talented Go prodigy.
Hayashi Monnyu (林門入)	1678–1719	6 dan	Second head of the Hayashi house.
Honinbo Dochi Honinbo Dochi Hon'inbō Dōchi was a professional Go player.- Biography :Dōchi learned to play Go at the age of 7. A short two years thereafter, he had become a disciple of Hon'inbō Dōsaku, the strongest player of his time. He became very strong under Dosaku, eventually reaching 6 dan. After Dosaku died in 1702,... (本因坊道知)	1690–1727	Meijin Meijin Meijin , literally translated, means "Brilliant Man." It is the name of the second most prestigious Japanese Go Tournament. It also refers to a traditional Japanese title given to the strongest player of the day during the Edo period.- The tournament :... , 9 dan	Fifth head of the house Honinbo Honinbo Honinbō was the name of one of the four major schools of Go in Japan. Easily the strongest school of Go for most of its existence, it was established in 1612 and survived until 1940.... .
Honinbo Chihaku Honinbo Chihaku Hon'inbō Chihaku was a Japanese professional go player, and sixth head of the Honinbo house.He was a nephew of Hon'inbō Dōchi... (本因坊知伯)	1710–1733	6 dan	Sixth Honinbo.
Honinbo Shuhaku Honinbo Shuhaku Hon'inbō Shūhaku was a Japanese professional go player, and seventh head of Honinbo house. His succession to his sort-lived predecessor, in 1733, was irregular, since he had not been officially adopted as heir... (本因坊秀伯)	1716–1741	6 dan	Seventh head of the house Honinbo.
Honinbo Satsugen Honinbo Satsugen Hon'inbō Satsugen was a professional Go player.- Biography :Satsugen became Meijin by defeating Inoue Shunseki in 1767.... (本因坊察元)	1733–1788	Meijin, 9 dan	Ninth head of the house Honinbo.
Honinbo Genjo Honinbo Genjo Honinbō Genjō was a professional Go player.- Biography :Genjō was the eleventh Honinbō. His rival and great friend was Yasui Chitoku, who had advanced to 8 dan at the same time as Genjō... (本因坊元丈)	1775–1832	8 dan	Eleventh head of the house Honinbo.
Honinbo Jowa Honinbo Jowa Honinbo Jowa served as 12th Honinbo from 1827 and Meijin Godokoro from 1831 until 1839, when he was forced into retirement.... (本因坊丈和)	1787–1847	8 dan	Was dubbed Kisei Kisei The Kisei is a Go competition. The title, meaning go sage in Japanese, was a traditional honorary appellation given to a handful of players down the centuries. The element ki can also apply to shogi, and there were also recognized kisei in the shogi world.-Background:Kisei is a Go competition... (go sage), played the famous "Blood Vomiting Game Blood-vomiting game The blood-vomiting game is a famous game of go of the Edo period of Japan, played on June 27, 1835 between Honinbo Jowa and Intetsu Akaboshi... " with Akaboshi Intetsu Akaboshi Intetsu was a Japanese professional 7 dan Go player.-Biography:Born 1810, Akaboshi rose to prominence as a student of Inoue Genan Inseki, head of the House of Inoue. By 1834, the former had attained the rank of 7 dan.... .
Ota Yuzo (太田雄蔵)	1807–1856	7 dan	was a close friend of Honinbo Shusaku Honinbo Shusaku Honinbo Shusaku was a professional Go player and is considered by many to be the greatest player of the golden age of Go in the mid-19th century.- Biography :He was nicknamed "Invincible" after he earned a perfect score for 19 straight wins in the annual castle... and once played a famous sanjubango Sanjubango Sanjubango is a Go competition where two players play 30 games. There is only one sanjubango known, and it was between Honinbo Shusaku and Ota Yuzo in 1853.... (30 game match) with him.
Intetsu Akaboshi	1810–1835	7 dan
Honinbo Shusaku Honinbo Shusaku Honinbo Shusaku was a professional Go player and is considered by many to be the greatest player of the golden age of Go in the mid-19th century.- Biography :He was nicknamed "Invincible" after he earned a perfect score for 19 straight wins in the annual castle... (本因坊秀策)	1829–1862	7 dan	One of the greatest players ever, he died young. He was posthumously awarded the title of Kisei Kisei The Kisei is a Go competition. The title, meaning go sage in Japanese, was a traditional honorary appellation given to a handful of players down the centuries. The element ki can also apply to shogi, and there were also recognized kisei in the shogi world.-Background:Kisei is a Go competition... (go sage).
Honinbo Shuho Honinbo Shuho , known also as Murase Shūho , was the first Japanese professional go player to have a reputation in the Western world.-Biography:A disciple in the Honinbo house, he founded the Hoensha institution and taught the game of Go to a German visitor by the name of Oskar Korschelt. Korschelt later was the... (本因坊秀甫)	1838–1886	8 dan	Was the founder of Hoensha Hoensha The Hoensha was a Japanese Go organization founded in 1879 by Honinbo Shuho. The Hoensha was the successor to study groups set up by Nakagawa Kamesaburo and other players. It was the major Go organization of the later Meiji period. Like the many Go organizations today, the Hoensha awarded... and the man who taught Go to Oskar Korschelt Oskar Korschelt Oskar Korschelt was a German chemist and engineer who introduced the Asian strategy board game of Go to Europe, especially to Germany and Austria.He was an industrial chemist working in the brewing industry... .
Honinbo Shuei Honinbo Shuei Honinbo Shuei was a Japanese professional Go player.- Biography :Honinbo Shuei, a younger son of the very strong Honinbo Shuwa, served as the 17th and again 19th head of the Honinbo house... (本因坊秀栄)	1854–1907	9 dan	was the 17th and again 19th head of the Honinbo Honinbo Honinbō was the name of one of the four major schools of Go in Japan. Easily the strongest school of Go for most of its existence, it was established in 1612 and survived until 1940.... house. Very active and innovative in the 1890s.
Honinbo Shusai Honinbo Shusai is the professional name of Hoju Tamura, also known as , who was a Japanese professional Go player.- Biography :He was born in Shiba, Tokyo, son of Tamura Yasunaga, a retainer of the shogun. He learned go at age 10 and joined the Hoensha in 1883, then under the leadership of Murase Shuho. He was... (本因坊秀哉)	1874–1940	9 dan	was the last inheritor of "Honinbo" title, and founder of the Nihon Ki-in Nihon Ki-in The Nihon Ki-in , also known as the Japan Go Association, is the main organizational body for Go in Japan, overseeing Japan's professional system and issuing diplomas for amateur dan rankings. It is based in Tokyo. The other major Go association in Japan is Kansai Ki-in.Nihon Ki-in was established... .

^{*All ranks are professional dan grades unless otherwise noted.}

China

Origin	Name	DOB–DOD	Peak rank	Notes
	Huang Longshi Huang Longshi Huang Longshi 黃龍士 was a go player. He is known as one of the greatest go players in history.- Biography :... (黃龍士)	1650s–1690s	Guoshou, 9 dan	Was considered by Go Seigen Go Seigen Wu Qingyuan , generally known in the West by his Japanese name Go Seigen, is considered by many players to be the greatest player of the game of Go in the 20th century and of all time.-Biography:... to have been at least the level of Honinbo Dosaku Honinbo Dosaku Hon'inbō Dōsaku was a professional go player.- Biography :Dōsaku was one of the greatest go players in history. He was born in the Iwami province of Japan and studied Go in the Hon'inbō school, becoming Meijin at a very young age.... . He reached Guoshou* at the age of 16.

*Players could achieve the level of Guoshou (National Champion), which is considered to be equal to the Japanese title of Meijin

Meijin

Japan

Name	DOB–DOD	Peak rank	Notes
Kensaku Segoe Kensaku Segoe was a professional Go player. -Biography:... (瀬越憲作)	1889–1972	9 dan	was famous for bringing and teaching Go Seigen and Cho Hunhyun in Japan.
Utaro Hashimoto Utaro Hashimoto was a professional Go player.- Biography :Hashimoto became a pro in 1922 when he was 15. He would win the Honinbō 3 times before finally reaching 9p in 1954. He founded the Kansai Ki-in in 1950.- Titles and runner-ups:... (橋本宇太郎)	1907–1994	9 dan	was the founder of the Kansai Ki-in Kansai Ki-in The Kansai Ki-in , i.e., Kansai Go Association, is an organizational body for the game of Go in Japan, which was founded by Hashimoto Utaro in 1950... .
Minoru Kitani Minoru Kitani was one of the most celebrated professional Go players and teachers of the game of Go in the twentieth century in Japan.- Biography :He earned the nickname "the Prodigy" after winning a knockout tournament. He defeated eight opponents from the Kiseisha in a row during 1928. He played a celebrated... (木谷実)	1909–1975	9 dan	was a great friend and rival to Go Seigen. Go and Kitani were the vanguard of the Shin-fuseki or "New Opening", a great advance in go theory. Most prolific teacher ever. Pupils include Masao Kato Masao Kato - Titles and runners-up :Ranks #4 in total amount of titles in Japan.-Books:Kato's Attack and Kill ISBN 4-87187-027-2The Chinese Opening ISBN 4-906574-33-5-External links:... , Yoshio Ishida Yoshio Ishida is a professional Go player.- Biography :By the time he was 8, Ishida started learning Go. He was a student at the legendary Kitani Minoru go school. Famous along with his fellow students Cho Chikun, Kobayashi Koichi, Kato Masao, and Takemiya Masaki. Alike his fellow students, he joined the dojo at... , Hideo Otake Hideo Otake is a Japanese Go player.- Biography :Otake was born in Kitakyūshū City, Japan. He joined the legendary Kitani Minoru school when he was 9, and quickly rose up the ranks to turn professional in 1956, when he was 14. He progressed swiftly, achieving 9 dan in 1970... , Kim In Kim In Kim In is a professional Go player.- Biography :Kim In became a professional in 1958 when he was 15. He was a student at the legendary Minoru Kitani school in 1962 and left to return home a year later. He was promoted to 9 dan in 1983, and was the third ever 9 dan in Korea. He was famous for his... , Cho Chikun Cho Chikun Cho Chihun 25th Honinbo Honorary Meijin is a professional Go player. His total title tally of 71 titles is the most in the history of the Japanese Nihon Ki-in. Cho is the only player to hold the top three titles—Kisei, Meijin, and Honinbo—simultaneously which he did for 3 years in a row... , Masaki Takemiya Masaki Takemiya is a professional Go player.- Biography :Masaki Takemiya was born in Japan. He became one of the many disciples of the Minoru Kitani school. His rise to fame began when he was only 15 years old. By the time he was 15, he was already 5 dan. He earned the nickname "9 dan killer" because he won... and Koichi Kobayashi Koichi Kobayashi is a Go player.- Biography :Koichi Kobayashi was born in Asahikawa, Japan. He was one of the more famous disciples of the legendary Minoru Kitani; he studied along with Cho Chikun, Masao Kato, Yoshio Ishida, and Masaki Takemiya. He would go on and marry the daughter of his teacher, Reiko Kitani , a... .
Toshihiro Shimamura Toshihiro Shimamura was a professional Go player.- Biography :Shimamura reached 9 dan in 1960. He was teacher to many players including Hane Yasumasa, Yamashiro Hiroshi, Nakano Hironari, Imamura Yoshiaki, Shimamura Michiro, Shigeno Yuki, and Matsumoto Nayoko.... (島村俊廣)	1912–1991	9 dan
Hidehiro Miyashita Hidehiro Miyashita was a professional Go player.- Biography :Miyashita became a 9 dan in 1960. He had many students, including Ishibashi Chinami, Hanawa Yasutoki, Tokimoto Hajime, Kanno Kiyonori, and Miyashita Suzue.- Titles & runners-up :... (宫下秀洋)	1913–1976	9 dan
Dogen Handa Dogen Handa also known as Hayami Handa, was a professional Go player.- Biography :Handa grew up as Tamejiro Suzuki's disciple. He would start as a pro in the Nihon Ki-in, but after the Kansai Ki-in's founding, he joined Utaro Hashimoto in the Kansai-Kiin. He became a 9p in 1959.- Titles & runners-up :... (半田道玄)	1914–1974	9 dan
Go Seigen Go Seigen Wu Qingyuan , generally known in the West by his Japanese name Go Seigen, is considered by many players to be the greatest player of the game of Go in the 20th century and of all time.-Biography:... (呉清源)	1914–	9 dan	Wu Qingyuan in Chinese Chinese language The Chinese language is a language or language family consisting of varieties which are mutually intelligible to varying degrees. Originally the indigenous languages spoken by the Han Chinese in China, it forms one of the branches of Sino-Tibetan family of languages... . is considered by many the greatest player of the 20th century, perhaps the greatest of all time. He had a superb match play record, before the current era dominated by annual titles.
Kaku Takagawa Kaku Takagawa , also known as , was one of the most successful professional Go players of the twentieth century.- Biography :Kaku Takagawa won the Honinbō title nine times in a row, from 1952 to 1960, and was subsequently awarded the permanent title of Honorary Honinbo. He then chose Shukaku as his Honinbō name.... (高川格)	1915–1986	9 dan	The first of only four players to receive the Honorary Honinbo title.
Hosai Fujisawa Hosai Fujisawa was a professional Go player.- Biography :Hosai Fujisawa was born in Yokohama, Japan. He was among the best players of the 20th century. He became an insei at the Nihon Ki-in when he was 11 years old. He became one of Honinbō Shūsai's disciples. He was known for a strong sense of will, reading... (藤沢朋斎)	1919–1993	9 dan	one of the greatest players of the '60s.
Eio Sakata Eio Sakata was a professional 9-dan Japanese professional Go player.- Biography :Sakata became a professional Go player in 1935. His first title match was the Hon'inbō in 1951 when he challenged Hashimoto Utaro. At the time, Hon'inbō started the Kansai Ki-in, so Sakata was under pressure to win the title back... (坂田栄男)	1920–2010	9 dan	his nicknames include "Razor Sakata", the "Master of myoushu" (brilliant move). He was the former longtime holder of most championship titles with 64.
Shuchi Kubouchi Shuchi Kubouchi is a professional Go player.-Biography :Kubouchi became a professional 9-dan in 1960 for the Kansai Ki-in. His teacher was Katsukiyo Kubomatsu.- Titles :- See also :* International Go Federation* List of Go organizations... (窪内秀知)	1920–	9 dan	Affiliate of the Kansai Ki-in.
Toshio Sakai Toshio Sakai (Go) was a professional Go player.- Biography :Sakai was promoted to 6 dan in 1970. He had 3 brothers, Sakai Michiharu, Sakai Yasuo and Sakai Yoshimitsu... (酒井淑夫)	1920–1983	6 dan
Masao Sugiuchi (杉内雅男)	1920–	9 dan	nicknamed "the God of Go" for his serious attitude towards Go. Affiliate of the Nihon Ki-in.
Takeo Kajiwara Takeo Kajiwara was a professional Go player.- Biography :Kajiwara studied under Riichi Sekiyama 9 dan until Kajiwara became a 1 dan in the autumn of 1937. He was promoted to 9 dan in 1965. Kajiwara left the Nihon Ki-in in 1947 with seven other professionals to create a rival organization, the Igo Shisha. He... (梶原武雄)	1923–	9 dan	one of the "three crows Three crows Crows, and especially ravens, often feature in European legends or mythology as portents or harbingers of doom or death, because of their dark plumage, unnerving calls, and tendency to eat carrion.-English folklore:... ".
Sunao Sato Sunao Sato was a professional Go player.- Biography :Sato was a 9 dan who played in the Kansai Ki-in. He had many pupils, including Yuki Satoshi, Izumo Tetsuya, Maeda Ryo, and Furuya Yutaka. Sato became a 9 dan in 1963- Titles :... (佐藤直男)	1924–2004	9 dan
Hideyuki Fujisawa Hideyuki Fujisawa , also known as Shuko Fujisawa, was a Japanese professional Go player.- Biography :Hideyuki Fujisawa was born in Yokohama, Japan. He was one of the best players during his era. One of the "Three Crows" along with Yamabe Toshiro and Keizo Suzuki... (藤沢秀行)	1925–2009	9 dan	is Honorary Kisei Kisei The Kisei is a Go competition. The title, meaning go sage in Japanese, was a traditional honorary appellation given to a handful of players down the centuries. The element ki can also apply to shogi, and there were also recognized kisei in the shogi world.-Background:Kisei is a Go competition... after winning the Kisei 6 times in a row.
Toshiro Yamabe Toshiro Yamabe was a professional Go player.-Biography:Toshiro was a student of Mukai Kazuo from 1941. He became shodan professional at the Nihon Ki-in in 1941, and reached 9 dan in 1969. He was known for his early resignations of games, sometimes claiming that he refused to play on because of his opponents... (山部俊郎)	1926–2000	9 dan	one of the "three crows Three crows Crows, and especially ravens, often feature in European legends or mythology as portents or harbingers of doom or death, because of their dark plumage, unnerving calls, and tendency to eat carrion.-English folklore:... ".
Keizo Suzuki Keizo Suzuki was a professional Go player.-Biography:Keizo Suzuki was a promising Japanese go player - one of the "Three Crows" of the 1940s and early 50's. He died a premature death at 18 from tuberculosis.-External links:**... (鈴木圭三)	1927–1945	3 dan	one of the "three crows".
Yasuro Kikuchi Yasuro Kikuchi is an amateur Go player.-Biography:Kikuchi founded the prestigious Ryokusei Academy in 1975, which has become one of the most prolific go schools in Japan. Some of the most famous players to come out of the academy include Kikuyo Aoki , Atsushi Kato, Jiro Akiyama, Tomochika Mizokami , and Keigo... (加藤朋子)	1929–	8 dan	is the most famous amateur go player in Japan.
Shuzo Ohira Shuzo Ohira was a professional Go player.- Biography :Ohira was born in Gifu, Japan. Taken under the wing of the prolific Kitani Minoru in 1941, Ohira quickly rose above in rank. By 1947, he had obtained professional 1 dan, being promoted to 2 dan in the same year. By 1955 he was 6 dan, and by 1963 he reached... (大平修三)	1930–1998	9 dan
Naoki Miyamoto Naoki Miyamoto is a professional Go player.- Biography :Miyamoto became a professional in 1950 for the Kansai Ki-in. He was promoted to 9 dan in 1969. He is famous for the books he has written. Oyama Kunio, Ushinohama Satsuo and Matsumura Osamu are his disciples.- Titles :... (宮本直毅)	1934–	9 dan	Affiliate of the Kansai Ki-in.
Shoji Hashimoto Shoji Hashimoto was a professional Go player.- Biography :Hashimoto turned pro in 1947 when he was just 12. It'd take him only 11 years to reach 9p. He learned Go from his father Hashimoto Kunisaburō and his disciples include Takahara Shūji, Moriyama Naoki, Oda Hiromitsu, Okahashi Hirotada, and Hayashi Kōzō. He is... (僑本昌二)	1935–	9 dan	Affiliate of the Kansai Ki-In.
Yasuo Koyama Yasuo Koyama was a professional Go player.-Biography :Koyama became a 9 dan in 1971. He played in the Kansai Ki-in. His disciple was Yahata Koichi.- Titles :... (小山靖男)	1937–2000	9 dan
Takeo Ando Takeo Ando , also known as Takeo Suzuki, is a professional Go player.-Biography:Takeo served as the chief director of the Japanese go organization, the Nihon Ki-in, for many years up until his retirement in 2000. He is known for being the teacher of many strong players including Norimoto Yoda. Cho Sonjin,... (安藤武夫)	1938–	9 dan	Affiliate of the Nihon Ki-in.
Hiroaki Tōno Hiroaki Tono is a professional Go player.- Biography :Tōno became a professional in 1951. In 1970, he became a 9 dan. He is affiliated to the Kansai Ki-in.-Title & runners-up :-External Links:**... (东野弘昭)	1939–	9 dan	Affiliate of the Kansai Ki-in.
Norio Kudo Norio Kudo is a professional Go player.- Biography :Kudo turned professional in 1955 and was promoted to 9 dan in 1976. Although he did not win many tournaments, he was known for teaching Go to many people, even if they were just starting to learn, or were about to turn 1 dan... (工藤紀夫)	1940–	9 dan	current President for the International Go Federation. Affiliate of the Nihon Ki-In.
Kunio Ishii Kunio Ishii is a professional Go player.- Biography :Ishii became an insei in 1954, then a professional in 1956 under the guidance of his teacher Hokosawa Senjin. By 1978, he was at the highest rank of order, 9 dan. Although he competed in countless tournaments during his time, he was never able to win any... (石井邦生)	1941–	9 dan	Affiliate of the Nihon Ki-in.
Rin Kaiho Rin Kaiho Rin Kaiho is a professional Go player.-Biography:Rin Kaiho was born in Shanghai, China. He was a student of Go Seigen when Go brought him to Japan in 1952. He was a promising player who won his first title at the age of 23, the Meijin. He is also part of the 1200 win group... (林海峰)	1942–	9 dan	was one of Go Seigen's students. Known for winning many titles at a young age. Affiliate of the Nihon Ki-in Nihon Ki-in The Nihon Ki-in , also known as the Japan Go Association, is the main organizational body for Go in Japan, overseeing Japan's professional system and issuing diplomas for amateur dan rankings. It is based in Tokyo. The other major Go association in Japan is Kansai Ki-in.Nihon Ki-in was established... .
Yasumasa Hane Yasumasa Hane is a professional Go player.- Biography :Yasumasa Hane was one of the best players in the Nagoya branch of the Nihon Ki-in during his peak. He is probably better known for being the father of the former Kisei holder, Naoki Hane. He was also known as to being a major contributor in the development... (羽根泰正)	1944–	9 dan	father of Hane Naoki.
Manfred Wimmer Manfred Wimmer Manfred Wimmer was the first Western professional go player. As of 2007, there have been fewer than a dozen professional go players born outside of Asia.Manfred Wimmer was born in Austria in 1944... (マンフレッド・ウィマー)	1944–1995	2 dan	Born in Austria, became the first western Go professional in 1978, doing so with the Kansai Ki-in Kansai Ki-in The Kansai Ki-in , i.e., Kansai Go Association, is an organizational body for the game of Go in Japan, which was founded by Hashimoto Utaro in 1950... . Reached 2p the same year, and later brought Go to Kenya Kenya Kenya , officially known as the Republic of Kenya, is a country in East Africa that lies on the equator, with the Indian Ocean to its south-east... and Madagascar Madagascar The Republic of Madagascar is an island country located in the Indian Ocean off the southeastern coast of Africa... .
Kunihisa Honda Kunihisa Honda is a professional Go player.- Biography :Honda became a professional in 1961. He was promoted to 9 dan in 1973. He won the Kansai Ki-in's Oteai four times. He also visited China twice, in 1973 and 1985 for Go related business.- Titles & runners-up :... (本田邦久)	1945–	9 dan
Masao Kato Masao Kato - Titles and runners-up :Ranks #4 in total amount of titles in Japan.-Books:Kato's Attack and Kill ISBN 4-87187-027-2The Chinese Opening ISBN 4-906574-33-5-External links:... (加藤正夫)	1947–2004	9 dan	was the master of the attacking style, who died on December 30, 2004.
Yoshio Ishida Yoshio Ishida is a professional Go player.- Biography :By the time he was 8, Ishida started learning Go. He was a student at the legendary Kitani Minoru go school. Famous along with his fellow students Cho Chikun, Kobayashi Koichi, Kato Masao, and Takemiya Masaki. Alike his fellow students, he joined the dojo at... (石田芳夫)	1948–	9 dan	is the youngest ever Honinbo winner and one of the strongest players of the 1970s. TV commentator. Affiliate of the Nihon Ki-In.
Shigeru Baba Shigeru Baba is a professional Go player.- Biography :Shigeru was a disciple of Toshio Sakai. He plays in the Nagoya branch of the Nihon Ki-in, where he would come close to winning the Okan title in 1980.- Runners-up :... (馬場滋)	1949–	9 dan	Affiliate of the Nihon Ki-in.
Goro Miyazawa Goro Miyazawa is a professional Go player.Miyazawa turned professional in 1966 and reached 9 dan in 1993. He currently resides in the Kanagawa Prefecture in Japan.-Titles & runners-up:-References:... (宮沢吾朗)	1949–	9 dan	Affiliate of the Nihon Ki-in.
Shuzo Awaji Shuzo Awaji is a professional Go player.- Biography :Shuzo Awaji became a professional Go player when he was 19 years old. He was promoted to 9 dan after he challenged for the 1984 Honinbo title. Despite challenging for all of the big seven titles in Japan , he has never won any of them.- Titles & runners-up... (淡路修三)	1949–	9 dan	famous for his Go school. Affiliate of the Nihon Ki-In.
Akira Ishida Akira Ishida (Go) is a professional Go player.- Biography :Ishida was a student of Fukuda Masayoshi when he became an insei. 8 years after becoming an insei, Ishida became a pro in 1966. He was promoted fast, reaching 9 dan in 1982. In 1972, he won the Oteai's top section, and later went onto winning two straight... (石田章)	1949–	9 dan	Affiliate of the Nihon Ki-in.
Masaki Takemiya Masaki Takemiya is a professional Go player.- Biography :Masaki Takemiya was born in Japan. He became one of the many disciples of the Minoru Kitani school. His rise to fame began when he was only 15 years old. By the time he was 15, he was already 5 dan. He earned the nickname "9 dan killer" because he won... (武宮正樹)	1951–	9 dan	is famous for his 'cosmic style', aiming for territory in the center of the board rather than the sides. Affiliate of the Nihon Ki-In.
Koichi Kobayashi Koichi Kobayashi is a Go player.- Biography :Koichi Kobayashi was born in Asahikawa, Japan. He was one of the more famous disciples of the legendary Minoru Kitani; he studied along with Cho Chikun, Masao Kato, Yoshio Ishida, and Masaki Takemiya. He would go on and marry the daughter of his teacher, Reiko Kitani , a... (小林光一)	1952–	9 dan	has the third most titles in Japan with 57. Affiliate of the Nihon Ki-In.
Cho Chikun Cho Chikun Cho Chihun 25th Honinbo Honorary Meijin is a professional Go player. His total title tally of 71 titles is the most in the history of the Japanese Nihon Ki-in. Cho is the only player to hold the top three titles—Kisei, Meijin, and Honinbo—simultaneously which he did for 3 years in a row... (조치훈, 趙治勳)	1956–	9 dan	Cho Chihun in Korean, is among the best players of the late 20th century - passed Sakata in late 2002 for most titles in Japan with 66. Affiliate of the Nihon Ki-In.
O Rissei O Rissei Ō Rissei is a professional Go player in Japan.- Biography :Rissei was born in Taiwan and moved to Japan when he was 13 years old; he would become professional the following year. His instructor is Kano Yoshinori.- Titles and runners-up :Ranks #10-t in total amount of titles in Japan.-External... (王立誠)	1958–	9 dan	one of the first Taiwanese Go players to become a professional in Japan. Affiliate of the Nihon Ki-In.
Hiroshi Yamashiro Hiroshi Yamashiro is a professional Go player.- Biography :Yamashiro grew up with Go, as he became a professional in 1972. He would eventually join the Nagoya branch of the Nihon Ki-in. He has challenged for many of Japan's biggest titles, but he hasn't won any of them. He became a 9 dan in 1985, after winning the... (山城宏)	1958–	9 dan	Affiliate of the Nihon Ki-In.
Satoshi Kataoka Satoshi Kataoka Satoshi Kataoka is a professional Go player.- Promotion record :- Titles & runners-up :-External Links:**... (片岡聡)	1958–	9 dan	Affiliate of the Nihon Ki-In.
Satoru Kobayashi Satoru Kobayashi is a professional Go player.- Biography :Satoru Kobayashi is a professional Go player, who plays for the Japanese Nihon Ki-in. His rank is 9 dan, and he is known for his pincer style. He has one brother and sister, who are also professionals - Chizu Kobayashi and Kenji Kobayashi.- Suspension :In... (小林覚)	1959–	9 dan	Affiliate of the Nihon Ki-In.
O Meien O Meien O Meien is a professional Go player.- Biography :Meien was born in Taipei, Taiwan. He is known for his quick fuseki and fighting ability. He became a pro in 1977, two years after moving to Japan. He advanced to 9 dan in 1992.- Titles and runners-up :-External Links:**... (王銘琬)	1961–	9 dan	famous for his "Meien-isms", a special way of opening a game. Affiliate of the Nihon Ki-In.
Michael Redmond (マイケル・レドモンド)	1963–	9 dan	is the only non-Asian (American) to attain rank of 9-dan. TV commentator for the Japanese network NHK NHK NHK is Japan's national public broadcasting organization. NHK, which has always identified itself to its audiences by the English pronunciation of its initials, is a publicly owned corporation funded by viewers' payments of a television license fee.... . Affiliate of the Nihon Ki-In.
Shinichi Aoki Shinichi Aoki is a professional Go player.-Biography:Shinichi is the older brother of female 8 dan go player, Kikuyo Aoki. He studied under Yasuro Kikuchi. He has over 400 wins as a professional in his career.-Titles:-References:... (青木紳一)	1965–	9 dan	Affiliate of the Nihon Ki-in.
Norimoto Yoda Norimoto Yoda is a professional Go player.-Biography:Yoda is a student of Takeo Ando. He has won 34 titles so far in his career, the sixth highest in Japan. He became a professional in 1980, and reached 9 dan in 1993... (依田紀基)	1966–	9 dan	Has one of the best track records in international tournaments for Japan. Affiliate of the Nihon Ki-In.
Toshiya Imamura (今村俊也)	1966–	9 dan	Affiliate of the Kansai Ki-in.
Hideki Komatsu Hideki Komatsu is a professional Go player.- Biography :Komatsu was born in Aichi, Japan and quickly rose among the ranks of Go in the 80's and early 90's. He currently resides in Tokyo, Japan.- Promotion record :- Titles & runners-up :-References:... (小松英樹)	1967–	9 dan	Affiliate of the Nihon Ki-In.
Kikuyo Aoki Kikuyo Aoki -Titles:- See also :* International Go Federation* List of Go organizations* List of professional Go tournaments- References :... (青木喜久代)	1968–	8 dan	Affiliate of the Nihon Ki-In.
Hans Reinhard Pietsch Hans Pietsch Hans Reinhard Pietsch was a German Go player, one of the few European-born to have been promoted to the professional levels.... (ハンス・ピーチ)	1968–2003	6 dan	Known for spreading Go around the world.
Tomoyasu Mimura Tomoyasu Mimura is a professional Go player.- Biography :Mimura became a professional in 1986. He was promoted to 9 dan in 2000. He is married to Makihata Taeko.- Promotion record :- Titles and runners-up :-External Links:**... (三村智保)	1969–	9 dan	Affiliate of the Nihon Ki-In.
Michihiro Morita Michihiro Morita is a professional Go player.- Titles & runners-up :-External Links:**... (森田道博)	1970–	9 dan	Affiliate of the Nihon Ki-In.
Cho Sonjin Cho Sonjin Cho Sonjin is a professional Go player.Cho spent 12 years in South Korea before deciding to leave and become a professional in Japan, accomplishing his goal two years later. He was promoted to 9 dan in 1998. In 1999, he defeated Cho Chikun in the Honinbo, ending Chikun's 10 year run with the... (조선진, 趙善津)	1970–	9 dan	Affiliate of the Nihon Ki-In.
Ryu Shikun Ryu Shikun Ryu Shikun in Seoul, South Korea, is a professional Go player.- Biography :Ryu Shikun is a Go player who grew up in Seoul. He did not move to Japan until he was 15, and just 2 years later he turned professional. He was promoted to 9 dan in 2003.- Titles & runners-up :-External Links:**... (류시훈, 柳時熏)	1971–	9 dan	Affiliate of the Nihon Ki-In.
Kimio Yamada Kimio Yamada is a professional Go player. A territorial player who is adept at invading and living within opponent's spheres of influence, Yamada won his first major title, the Oza, in 1997. He has two older brothers, Shiho Yamada and Wakio Yamada.- Biography :... (山田規三生)	1972–	9 dan	Affiliate of the Nihon Ki-In.
Satoshi Yuki Satoshi Yuki is a Japanese professional Go player.- Biography :Yuki won the NHK Cup in 2010 for the second time in a row, becoming the third player after Eio Sakata and Norimoto Yoda to do such. He was selected as a representative of the Japanese team at the 16th Asian Games. In 2010, Yuki reached the final of... (結城聡)	1972–	9 dan	The third youngest player to become a professional, and second youngest professional for the Kansai Ki-in Kansai Ki-in The Kansai Ki-in , i.e., Kansai Go Association, is an organizational body for the game of Go in Japan, which was founded by Hashimoto Utaro in 1950... . Affiliate of the Kansai Ki-In.
Catalin Taranu Catalin Taranu Cătălin Țăranu , born March 31, 1973 in Romania, is one of the very few professional players of the board game of Go from outside Asia.- Biography :... (タラヌ・カタリン)	1973–	5 dan	One of Romania's best players and a pro in Japan. Affiliate of the Nihon Ki-In.
Yukari Yoshihara (梅澤由香里)	1973–	5 dan	The Go player who supervised the production of the manga Hikaru no Go Hikaru no Go is a manga series, a coming of age story based on the board game Go written by Yumi Hotta and illustrated by Takeshi Obata with an anime adaptation. The production of the series' Go games was supervised by Go professional Yukari Umezawa... . Affiliate of the Nihon Ki-In.
Hideyuki Sakai Hideyuki Sakai is a professional Go player.- Biography :Before becoming a professional, Sakai was majoring in medical science at Kyoto University. For a long time, Sakai was the strongest amateur player in Japan, and when he won the World Amateur Go Championship in 2000, the Kansai Ki-in awarded him professional... (坂井秀至)	1973–	8 dan	Won the World Amateur Go Championship in 2000. Affiliate of the Kansai Ki-in.
Shinya Nakamura Shinya Nakamura is a professional Go player.-Biography:Nakamura became a professional in 1991. He reached his current rank, 8 dan, in 2001. Nakamura was taught by Yorimoto Yamashita. In 1996, Nakamura lost in the Shinjin-O final to future Honinbō Shinji Takao. Two years later, in 1998, he won his first and only... (仲邑信也)	1973–	8 dan	Affiliate of the Nihon Ki-in.
Atsushi Kato Atsushi Kato is a professional Go player.- Biography :Kato became a professional in 1990, and in the same year was promoted to 2 dan. In 1996, he had already reached 6 dan, and is currently 8 dan. As an insei, he was taught by Yasuro Kikuchi. Kato has been part of the Kisei league consistently for the last few... (加藤充志)	1974–	8 dan	Affiliate of the Nihon Ki-in.
Kaori Chinen Kaori Chinen is a professional Go player.-Biography:Kaori Chinen became a professional in 1993. She was promoted to 3 dan four years later in 1997. She married fellow professional go player Yo Kagen in 1997. She holds the female record for longest defense of a title, keeping the Women's Kisei for 6 straight... (知念かおり)	1974–	4 dan	Honorary Women's Kisei Women's Kisei The Women's Kisei is a Go competition.- Outline :The Women's Kisei is sponsored by NTT DoCoMo, and uses a hayago format, unlike the male Kisei, which uses an eight hour thinking time format. The winner's purse is 3,500,000 Yen .-Past winners:... . Affiliate of the Nihon Ki-in.
Shinji Takao Shinji Takao is a Japanese professional Go player.- Biography :Shinji Takao is one of Japan's best Go players. He turned professional in 1991. He won the Honinbo tournament in 2005 by a half point in the last game... (高尾紳路)	1976–	9 dan	Affiliate of the Nihon Ki-in.
Naoki Hane Naoki Hane is a professional Japanese 9 dan Go player currently affiliated with the Nihon Ki-in. He is both the son, and student, of Yasumasa Hane, who is also a professional 9 dan of the Nihon Ki-in.- Titles and runners-up :-Promotion record:-Awards:... (羽根直樹)	1976–	9 dan	In 2002, Hane broke the record for fastest promotion to 9 dan in Nihon Ki-in history. Affiliate of the Nihon Ki-in.
Han Zenki Han Zenki Han Zenki is a professional Go player.- Biography :Han was born in Taiwan in 1977. He became a professional Go player in 1996. In the same year, he was promoted to 2-dan. In 2000, he was promoted to 5-dan. He is currently at the 7-dan rank.-External Links:**... (潘善琪)	1977–	7 dan	Affiliate of the Nihon Ki-in.
Tomochika Mizokami Tomochika Mizokami is a professional Go player.- Biography :Mizokami Tomochika is part of the older class of players in the 6 - 8 dan range in Japan.- Titles & runners-up :-External Links:**... (溝上知親)	1977–	7 dan	Affiliate of the Nihon Ki-in.
Keigo Yamashita Keigo Yamashita is a professional Go player. Yamashita adopted the name Honinbo Dowa after winning his first Honinbo title in 2010.-Biography:A student of Yasuro Kikuchi, Yamashita turned professional in 1993. He won the 19th Kisei 2 dan division in 1994. Yamashita reached the challenger finals of the Tengen in 1999... (山下敬吾)	1978–	9 dan	Has an innovative style harking back to shinfuseki Shinfuseki or new opening strategy was the change of attitude to go opening theory that set in strongly in Japan in 1933. It corresponds, a little later, to hypermodern play in chess, with the inversion that shinfuseki thought the center of the board had been unjustly underemphasised.In the 1930s, a group of... . Affiliate of the Nihon Ki-in.
Kaori Aoba Kaori Aoba is a female professional 4 dan Go player. She is currently an affiliate of the Nihon Ki-in, the largest Go association of Japan, and was a student of Yasumasa Hane.... (青葉　かおり)	1978–	4 dan	First professional to be defeated by a Go engine with a conventional handicap. Affiliate of the Nihon Ki-in.
Kim Shushun Kim Shushun Kim Shushun , also known as Kin Hidetoshi, Kim Shujun, or Kim Sujun, is a professional Go player.- Biography :... (김수준, 金秀俊)	1979–	7 dan	Affiliate of the Nihon Ki-in.
So Yokoku So Yokoku So Yokoku is a professional Go player.- Biography :So became a professional in 1994. He was originally from China, and moved to Japan in 1991. In 1997, he was promoted to 5 dan. He became a 7 dan in 2001. He was recently promoted to his current rank, 8 dan.- Titles & Runner Ups :... (蘇耀国)	1979–	8 dan	Affiliate of the Nihon Ki-in.
Cho U Cho U Cho U Kisei, Oza is a professional Go player. He currently ranks 6th in the most titles won by a Japanese professional; his NEC Cup win in 2011 put him past his teacher Rin Kaiho and Norimoto Yoda. Cho is the only player in history to have held five of the top seven major titles... (張栩)	1980–	9 dan	In 2003, Cho U broke the record for fastest promotion to 9 dan in Nihon Ki-in history. Affiliate of the Nihon Ki-in.
Takehisa Matsumoto Takehisa Matsumoto is a professional go player.-Biography:Takehisa is a student of top title holder Cho Chikun. In 1997 he became a professional at the Nihon Ki-in institute in Japan. He quickly moved up the ranks, being promoted to 3 dan just the next year. In 2003 he reached a total amount of 200 wins as a... (松本武久)	1980–	6 dan	Affiliate of the Nihon Ki-in.
Rin Kono Rin Kono is a Japanese professional Go player.- Biography :Rin Kono grew up as one of Koichi Kobayashi's students. He became a professional when he was 15 in 1996. He was promoted to 8 dan after beating Keigo Yamashita to win the Tengen in 2005... (河野臨)	1981–	9 dan	Affiliate of the Nihon Ki-In.
Ko Reibun Ko Reibun - Biography :Rin became a professional in 1997. He is the son of one of the greatest Chinese players, Nie Weiping 9 dan, and his mother is Kong Xiangming 8 dan. He moved to Japan to study under Yasuro Kikuchi. He is a Nihon Ki-in pro taking part in tournaments.... (孔令文)	1981–	5 dan	Affiliate of the Nihon Ki-in.
Atsushi Tsuruyama Atsushi Tsuruyama is a professional Go player.-Biography:Atsushi turned professional in 1999 and was promoted to 2 dan in the same year. In 2004, Atsushi was awarded a prize for having the highest winning percentage among Japanese professionals. His record was 27 wins and 9 losses, totaling to a 75% win ratio. In... (鶴山淳志)	1981–	6 dan	Affiliate of the Nihon Ki-in.
Kana Mannami Kana Mannami -Titles & runners-up :-External links:**... (万波佳奈)	1983–	3 dan	Affiliate of the Nihon Ki-in.
Taiki Seto Taiki Seto is a Kansai Ki-in professional Go player.- Biography :Seto became a professional player in 2000 for the Kansai Ki-in. In his first 5 years at the Kansai Ki-in, he had a spectacular record in the Oteai with 51 wins and just 3 losses through 2005. In 2000, he scored 12 wins and 0 losses. In 2001, he... (瀬戸大樹)	1984–	6 dan	Affiliate of the Kansai Ki-in.
Nobuaki Anzai Nobuaki Anzai is a professional Go player.- Promotion record :-External links:*... (安斎伸彰)	1985–	4 dan	Affiliate of the Nihon Ki-in.
Ko Iso Ko Iso Ko Iso is a professional Go player.-Biography:Ko became a professional in 2002. He was promoted to 7 dan after making it through the preliminary rounds of the Meijin tournament.-Promotion record:-Runners-up:... (黄翊祖)	1987–	7 dan	Affiliate of the Nihon Ki-In.
Yuta Iyama Yuta Iyama is a Japanese professional Go player.-Biography:Born in Osaka, Iyama became the first professional of the Heisei period. He began playing Go at the age of five and reached the rank of 3 dan amateur a year later. It was at this time Kunio Ishii became Iyama's teacher, with the two playing thousands... (井山裕太)	1988–	9 dan	Became the youngest title holder ever in 2005 after winning the Agon Cup Agon Cup The Agon Cup is a Go competition.-Biography:The Agon Cup is a Go competition used by the Japanese Nihon Kiin. It was started in 1994 by Agon Shu. The name was originally the "Acom Cup" but it changed its sponsor in 1999 and became the Agon Cup... . 34th Meijin. Affiliate of the Nihon Ki-In.
Daisuke Murakawa Daisuke Murakawa is a professional Go player.- Biography :Murakawa was still just a 6th grader when he became a professional Go player at the Kansai Ki-in. He was only one month older than Cho Chikun, making him the second youngest professional in Japan. This also made him the youngest Kansai Ki-in professional,... (村川大介)	1990–	3 dan	The youngest Kansai Ki-in pro ever. Affiliate of the Kansai Ki-in.

China

Name	DoB–DoD	Peak rank	Notes
Chen Zude Chen Zude Chen Zude is a Chinese professional Go player. He was also the President of the Chinese Chess Association.-Go career:... (陈祖德)	1944–	9 dan	was the chairman of Zhongguo Qiyuan Zhongguo Qiyuan Zhongguo Qiyuan is an official agency responsible for board games and card games such as go, bridge, chess and Chinese chess affairs under the All-China Sports Federation of the People's Republic of China... from 1992–2003 and is also the current president of the association. Famous for popularizing the Chinese fuseki.
Nie Weiping Nie Weiping Nie Weiping in Shen, Hebei, China) is a professional Go player.- Biography :Nie began learning Go at the age of nine and won the inaugural World Amateur Go Championship in 1979. Nie was given 9 dan rank in 1982. He became famous in the Go world after leading China to victory in the China-Japan... (聂卫平)	1952–	9 dan	Challenged for many top international titles in the late 1980s. Affiliate of the Zhongguo Qiyuan.
Liu Xiaoguang Liu Xiaoguang Liu Xiaoguang is a professional Go player.-Biography:He started playing Go at the age of 13 and became a 6 dan professional in 1982. In 1988, he was awarded 9 dan by the Zhongguo Qiyuan. Liu defeated four Japanese professionals in the 3rd China-Japan Supermatches.- Titles and runners-up :Ranks... (刘小光)	1960–	9 dan	Affiliate of the Zhongguo Qiyuan.
Cao Dayuan Cao Dayuan Cáo Dàyuán , born January 26, 1962) is a professional Go player.- Biography :Cao started learning Go when he was 11. He won the 4th World Amateur Go Championship in 1982 and turned professional in 1985. He was promoted to 9 dan in 1986.... (曹大元)	1962–	9 dan	Affiliate of the Zhongguo Qiyuan.
Ma Xiaochun Ma Xiaochun Ma Xiaochun is a Chinese professional Go player.- Biography :Ma was born in Zhejiang, China. He began playing Go at the age of nine and was awarded 7 dan rank in 1982. In 1983, Ma was promoted to 9 dan. He visited Japan in 1982 and later won the World Amateur Go Championship in 1983... (马晓春)	1962–	9 dan	A top player in China during the 1990s. Affiliate of the Zhongguo Qiyuan.
Feng Yun (丰云)	1966–	9 dan	Second woman ever attain rank of 9-dan. Affiliate of the Zhongguo Qiyuan Zhongguo Qiyuan Zhongguo Qiyuan is an official agency responsible for board games and card games such as go, bridge, chess and Chinese chess affairs under the All-China Sports Federation of the People's Republic of China... .
Qian Yuping Qian Yuping Qian Yuping is a Chinese professional Go player.- Biography :Qian was born in Shanghai, China. He started playing Go when he was 6 years old. In 1987, he reached 9 dan, the highest rank. At the time he was one of the youngest 9 dans. A year later, he won his first title, the National Go Individual... (錢宇平)	1966–	9 dan	Affiliate of the Zhongguo Qiyuan.
Yu Bin Yu Bin Yu Bin is a Chinese professional Go player.- Biography :Yu Bin is one of China's best Go players. He became 9 dan in 1991 at the age of 24.- Titles & Runner Up's :... (俞斌)	1967–	9 dan	Affiliate of the Zhongguo Qiyuan.
Shao Weigang Shao Weigang Shao Weigang is a professional Go player.- Biography :Shao started to learn Go at the age of 8. By 1986, when he was 13, Shao turned professional. Over 12 years, he was promoted to 9 dan. He currently resides in China.... (邵煒剛)	1973–	9 dan	Affiliate of the Zhongguo Qiyuan.
Chang Hao Chang Hao Chang Hao is a professional Go player. He is a 9 dan Go player from China. He is China's best player of the 1990s and one of the best in the world. Growing up he was a prodigy in China. He has won many titles, two of them international titles. He is best friends with Lee Chang-ho, whom he most... (常昊)	1976–	9 dan	Affiliate of the Zhongguo Qiyuan.
Zhou Heyang Zhou Heyang Zhou Heyang is a Chinese professional Go player.- Biography :Zhou Heyang was born in Luoyang, Henan, China. He is a Chinese professional Go player. He turned professional in 1988, and advanced to 9 dan in 2001. He started learning how to play Go at the age of 8... (周鹤洋)	1976–	9 dan	Affiliate of the Zhongguo Qiyuan.
Luo Xihe Luo Xihe Luo Xihe is a Chinese professional Go player.- Biography :Luo Xihe started learning Go at the age of six. He turned pro in 1989, and was promoted to 9 dan in 2002.- Titles & runners-up :- External links :*... (罗洗河)	1977–	9 dan	Affiliate of the Zhongguo Qiyuan.
Wang Lei (王磊)	1978–	8 dan	Affiliate of the Zhongguo Qiyuan.
Ding Wei Ding Wei Ding Wei is a Chinese professional Go player.- Biography :In 1992, Ding became a professional. He advanced a rank every year until 2001, where he reached 8 dan. After six years, he reached his current rank of 9 dan.... (丁偉)	1979–	8 dan	Affiliate of the Zhongguo Qiyuan.
Huang Yizhong Huang Yizhong Huang Yizhong is a Chinese professional Go player.- Biography :Huang began playing Go at the age of 7. By the time he turned 11, he had entered his province's Go team. At 14, he was a part of the National Youth Go Team. Huang turned professional in 1994, a year before joining the team. He is... (黄奕中)	1981–	6 dan	Affiliate of the Zhongguo Qiyuan.
Kong Jie Kong Jie Kong Jie is a Chinese professional Go player.- Biography :Kong Jie turned professional in 1994 at the age of 12. He was promoted to 7-dan after 8-years in 2001. In 2004 he was sent into the Teda Cup as China's representative against Lee Chang-ho and Yoda Norimoto... (孔杰)	1982–	9 dan	3 world championship titles. One of current top 3 players in the world. Affiliate of the Zhongguo Qiyuan.
Qiu Jun Qiu Jun Qiu Jun is a Chinese professional Go player.- Biography :Jun started learning Go at the age of 6. He became a professional in 1994. Over the next 3 years, he gained 3 consecutive promotions. He was promoted to 7 dan in 2005 and then reached 8 dan in 2006... (邱峻)	1982–	8 dan	Affiliate of the Zhongguo Qiyuan.
Tang Li Tang Li Tang Li is a Chinese professional Go player.- Biography :Tang started learning Go when most kids in China did, at the young age of 6. It wasn't until 1998, when Tang was 16, that'd she'd become a professional... (唐莉)	1982–	1 dan	Affiliate of the Zhongguo Qiyuan.
Hu Yaoyu Hu Yaoyu Hu Yaoyu is a Chinese professional Go player.- Biography :Hu became a pro at the age most Chinese players do which is 11. He quickly achieved 5 dan in 5 years, and became 8 dan in 2005. He has beaten some of the best players in the world, and he did it in order... (胡耀宇)	1982–	8 dan	Affiliate of the Zhongguo Qiyuan.
Gu Li Gu Li Gu Li is a Chinese professional Go player.- Biography :Gu Li is currently the #1 ranked Chinese player by the Zhongguo Qiyuan. He became a pro in 1994 when he was only 12. In 2006, he won the 10th LG Cup and became the youngest Chinese player to ever win a major international title; as a result,... (古力)	1983–	9 dan	7 World championship titles; One of top 3 players in the world. He had exceptional record between 2008 and 2010. He lost to Lee Sedol in 2011 BC card cup final. Affiliate of the Zhongguo Qiyuan.
Xie He Xie He (Go) - Career record :2006: 58 wins, 25 losses.2007: 37 wins, 17 losses.2008: 47 wins, 24 losses.2009: 29 wins, 23 losses.*2010: 51 wins, 21 losses.- Titles and runners-up :-References:... (谢赫)	1984–	5 dan	Affiliate of the Zhongguo Qiyuan.
Liu Xing Liu Xing Liu Xing is a Chinese professional Go player.-Biography:Liu started to learn Go at the age of 6. He turned professional in 1995, and joined the Chinese national squad in 1997. He was promoted to 7 dan in 2005.-Titles & runners-up:... (刘星)	1984–	6 dan	Affiliate of the Zhongguo Qiyuan.
Wang Xi Wang Xi Wang Xi is a professional Go player.-Biography:Wang was born in Kaifeng, Henan. He began playing Go at the very young age of 4. He was already enrolling in teams with professionals when he was only 8. In 1997, at the age of 13, Wang became a professional at the Zhongguo Qiyuan. The same year he... (王檄)	1984–	6 dan	Affiliate of the Zhongguo Qiyuan.
Piao Wenyao Piao Wenyao Piao Wenyao is a Chinese professional Go player of Korean descent currently residing in Harbin, Heilongjiang.- Biography :... (朴文堯)	1988–	5 dan	Affiliate of the Zhongguo Qiyuan.
Chen Yaoye Chen Yaoye Chen Yaoye is a professional Chinese Go player.- Biography :... (陳耀燁)	1989–	9 dan	Youngest professional 9 dan at 17 years of age. Affiliate of the Zhongguo Qiyuan.
Li Zhe Li Zhe Li Zhe is a Chinese professional Go player.-Biography:Li was born in China. At 11 years of age, Li Zhe became one of the youngest professional Go players ever. Two years later, in 2002, Li was promoted to 3 dan. Li made more history in 2006 when he became the youngest title holder in China, at 16... (李喆)	1989–	4 dan	Affiliate of the Zhongguo Qiyuan.
Zhou Ruiyang Zhou Ruiyang Zhou Ruiyang is a Chinese professional Go player.-Biography:Zhou began playing Go at the age of 7. He won the biggest amateur tournament in China, the Wanbao Cup, both the same year before he became a professional. In 2005, he was promoted to 3p. Earlier that year, he won the U-15 section of the... (周睿羊)	1991–	5 dan	Affiliate of the Zhongguo Qiyuan.

Korea

Name	DOB–DOD	Peak rank	Notes
Cho Namchul (조남철, 趙南哲)	1923–2006	9 dan	Founder of the Hanguk Kiwon.
Kang Cheol-min Kang Cheol-min Kang Cheol-min is a professional Go player.- Biography :Kang became a professional in 1958. It would take him 40 years just to reach the level of 8 dan. He died in 2002.- Titles & Runner Up's :... (강철민, 姜哲民)	1939–2002	8 dan
Kim In Kim In Kim In is a professional Go player.- Biography :Kim In became a professional in 1958 when he was 15. He was a student at the legendary Minoru Kitani school in 1962 and left to return home a year later. He was promoted to 9 dan in 1983, and was the third ever 9 dan in Korea. He was famous for his... (김인, 金寅)	1943–	9 dan	Won several titles during the 60s and 70s. Affiliate of the Hanguk Kiwon.
Ha Chanseok Ha Chanseok Ha Chanseok was a professional Go player.- Titles & runners-up :-External Links:**... (하찬석, 河燦錫)	1948–	8 dan	Affiliate of the Hanguk Kiwon.
Jimmy Cha Jimmy Cha Jimmy Cha , also known as Ch'a Min-su, is a South Korean professional go and avid poker player. He is also a black belt in martial arts and a talented classical pianist.... (차민수, 車敏洙)	1951–	4 dan	Affiliate of the Hanguk Kiwon.
Cho Hunhyun Cho Hunhyun Cho Hunhyun is a Korean 9-dan professional Go player. Considered one of the greatest players of all-time, Cho reached professional level in Korea in 1962. Since then, Cho has amassed 150 professional titles, more than any player in the world. He once held all nine Korea titles simultaneously in 1980... (조훈현, 曺薰鉉)	1953–	9 dan	The strongest Go player in South Korea during the 1970s up to the period of domination from his student Lee Chang-ho Lee Chang-ho Lee Chang-ho is a South Korean professional Go player of 9-dan rank. He is regarded by many as one of the strongest modern Go players. He was a student of Cho Hunhyun 9-dan. He is the only player to have won all eight international competitions at least once.-Biography:He turned professional in... . Holder of the most titles by a professional player. Also holder of the most consecutive title defense, winning the Paewang title 16 times in-a-row. 9 time world champion.
Seo Bongsoo Seo Bongsoo Seo Bongsoo is a professional Go player.- Biography :Seo Bongsoo turned professional in 1970. By 1986 he became the 4th ever Korean 9 dan. He was Cho Hunhyun's biggest rival in the 1980s. He would constantly challenge Cho in major title events. During their career, Seo and Cho played against each... (서봉수, 徐奉洙)	1953–	9 dan	was Cho Hunhyun's biggest rival in the '80s. Known for his excessive list of runner up titles. Affiliate of the Hanguk Kiwon.
Jiang Zhujiu Zhujiu Jiang Jiang Zhujiu is a Chinese professional Go player.- Biography :Zhujiu began playing Go when he was 6. In 1982, he was 5 dan, and 1987 he was promoted to 7 dan. Earlier in his career, he competed in some of the top Chinese tournaments. In the National Go Individual, he achieved 4th place on two... (장주주, 江鑄久)	1962–	9 dan	Affiliate of the Hanguk Kiwon.
Rui Naiwei Rui Naiwei Rui Naiwei is a Chinese professional Go player, now active in South Korea... (루이나이웨이, 芮乃伟)	1963–	9 dan	First woman to attain rank of 9-dan. Affiliate of the Hanguk Kiwon.
Yoo Changhyuk Yoo Changhyuk Yoo Changhyuk is a professional Go player in South Korea.- Biography :Yoo Changhyuk was one of Korea's best Go players. Growing up without a teacher, Yoo became a professional in 1984 and was promoted to 9 dan in 1996... (유창혁, 劉昌赫)	1966–	9 dan	6 time world champion. Affiliate of the Hanguk Kiwon.
Janice Kim Janice Kim Janice Kim is a professional go player, author, and business owner. She was born in Illinois in 1969 , and grew up in New Mexico. As a teenager, she studied go in Korea under Jeong Soo-hyon . She represented the US in the first World Youth Go Championship in 1984, placing third; in 1986 she...	1969–	3 dan	Affiliate of the Hanguk Kiwon.
Lee Chang-ho Lee Chang-ho Lee Chang-ho is a South Korean professional Go player of 9-dan rank. He is regarded by many as one of the strongest modern Go players. He was a student of Cho Hunhyun 9-dan. He is the only player to have won all eight international competitions at least once.-Biography:He turned professional in... (이창호, 李昌鎬)	1975–	9 dan	The strongest players in the world between 1996–2004, he was crowned 18 times in world championships starting from 1993, the most ever. His last world title is 2010 Samsung cup, first win in 4 years. Affiliate of the Hanguk Kiwon.
Choi Myung-Hoon Choi Myung-Hoon Choi Myung-Hoon is a professional Go player.- Biography :Choi was promoted to 9 dan in 2004. In 2000, he won his first and only title, the LG Refined Oil Cup.- Titles & runners-up :-External Links:**... (최명훈, 崔明勳)	1975–	9 dan	Affiliate of the Hanguk Kiwon.
An Choyoung An Choyoung An Choyoung is a professional Go player.- Biography :An became a pro in 1993 at the age of 14. He was promoted to 8 dan in 2004, then 9 dan in 2005. He participated in the first China-Korea Kangwon-Land Cup where he won 2 games.... (안조영, 安祚永)	1979–	9 dan	Affiliate of the Hanguk Kiwon.
Mok Jin-seok Mok Jin-seok - Biography :Mok turned pro in 1994 when he was 14. He reached 9 dan in 2005 after getting second place in the LG Cup against Lee Chang-ho.-Promotion record:-Career record:2006: 44 wins, 21 losses2007: 93 wins, 29 losses... (목진석, 睦鎭碩)	1980–	9 dan	Affiliate of the Hanguk Kiwon.
Alexandre Dinerchtein Alexandre Dinerchtein Alexandre Grigorievich Dinerchtein is a professional Go player from Russia. He is one of only a few non-Asian players to reach professional status, which he achieved in 2002 at the Hanguk Kiwon... (디너스타인 알렉산더)	1980–	3 dan	The first Russian professional Go player. Affiliate of the Hanguk Kiwon.
Cho Hanseung Cho Hanseung Cho Hanseung , also known as Jo Hanseung is a professional Go player.- Biography :Cho turned professional in 1995. He was promoted to 7 dan in 2004, and 8 dan in 2005, 9 dan in 2006.- Titles & runners-up :... (조한승, 趙漢乘)	1982–	9 dan	Affiliate of the Hanguk Kiwon.
Lee Sedol Lee Sedol Lee Sedol is a South Korean professional Go player of 9-dan rank.-Biography:Many regard Lee Sedol as one of the strongest players of all time. Lee was born in Korea in 1983 and studied at the Hanguk Kiwon. He ranks third in career titles with 37, behind Cho Hunhyun and Lee Chang-ho... (이세돌; 李世乭)	1983–	9 dan	Considered the strongest player in the world after Lee Chang-ho's reign. He won 2 world titles in 2011. He beat Gu Li in 2011 to win BC Card Cup. He obtained 13 world championship titles between 2002 and 2011. Affiliate of the Hanguk Kiwon.
Diana Koszegi Diana Koszegi Diána Kőszegi is the first Hungarian professional Go player.She became only the fourth European professional, when she was promoted to professional by the Korean Go Association on January 4, 2008.-Biography:... (코세기 디아나)	1983–	1 dan	The first Hungarian professional Go player. Affiliate of the Hanguk Kiwon.
Park Jungsang Park Jungsang Park Jungsang is a Korean professional Go player.- Biography :Park was born in South Korea. He became a professional in 2000, and was promoted to 4 dan in 2003. In 2004, he won his first Go competition, the SK Gas Cup. In 2006, he pulled upset victories over top players from China, South Korea,... (박정상, 朴正祥)	1984–	9 dan	Affiliate of the Hanguk Kiwon.
Hong Minpyo Hong Minpyo Hong Minpyo is a professional Go player.-Biography:Hong became a 4 dan in 2004. He is a currently a 5 dan. He reached the quarter finals of the biggest international tournament, the LG Cup, in 2006.-External links:**... (홍민표, 洪旼杓)	1984–	5 dan	Affiliate of the Hanguk Kiwon.
Park Seunghyun Park Seunghyun Park Seunghyun is a professional Go player.-Biography:Park was taught by Kwan Kab Ryong. He became a professional in 2000. In 2001, he was promoted to 2 dan, then 4 dan in 2004. He is currently 5 dan. He has participated in the 2002 Samsung Cup and 2007 LG Cup.-External Links:**... (박승현, 朴昇賢)	1984–	4 dan	Affiliate of the Hanguk Kiwon.
Choi Cheol-han Choi Cheol-han - Career record :2006: 58 wins, 29 losses2007: 45 wins, 25 losses2008: 50 wins, 18 losses2009: 56 wins, 18 losses2010: 63 wins, 22 losses2011: 18 wins, 9 losses- Titles and runners-up :... (최철한, 崔哲澣)	1985–	9 dan	Affiliate of the Hanguk Kiwon.
Pak Yeong-hun (박영훈, 朴永訓)	1985–	9 dan	A young and established Korean go professional. He reached 9 dan after 5 years, making him the youngest Korean 9 dan professional ever. 3 time world champion. Affiliate of the Hanguk Kiwon.
Kim Dong Hee Kim Dong Hee Kim Dong Hee is a professional Go player.- Biography :Kim Dong Hee is currently a 2 dan. In 2005, he was runner-up for the BC Card Cup.- Runners-up :-Promotion record:-External links:*... (김동희, 金東熙)	1985–	2 dan	Affiliate of the Hanguk Kiwon.
Won Seong-jin Won Seong-jin Won Seong-jin is a professional Go player.-Promotion record:-Career record:2006: 60 wins, 21 losses2007: 61 wins, 23 losses2008: 51 wins, 24 losses2009: 33 wins, 28 losses*2010: 60 wins, 24 losses... (원성진, 元晟溱)	1985–	9 dan	Affiliate of the Hanguk Kiwon.
Song Tae Kon Song Tae Kon Song Tae Kon is a Korean professional Go player.- Biography :Song Tae Kon started learning Go when he was 6. He turned pro when he was 13. Currently, at the age of 19 he is 7 dan. He is one of the best young players in South Korea. His biggest moment came in 2003 when he just couldn't beat Lee... (송태곤, 宋泰坤)	1986–	9 dan	Affiliate of the Hanguk Kiwon.
Heo Young-ho Heo Young-ho -Career record:2006: 58 wins, 25 losses2007: 64 wins, 24 losses2008: 33 wins, 18 losses2009: 35 wins, 18 losses2010: 66 wins, 20 losses-Titles and runners-up:-Korean Baduk League:-External Links:*... (허영호, 許映皓)	1986–	5 dan	Affiliate of the Hanguk Kiwon.
Ko Geuntae Ko Geuntae Ko Geuntae is a Korean professional Go player.- Biography :Ko Geuntae won the Chunwon title in 2005. Due to his Chunwon win, he was given an automatic berth into the 19th Fujitsu Cup. He beat top ranked Chinese professional and holder of the LG Cup, Gu Li, in the China-Korea Tengen. Ko won the... (고근태, 高根台)	1987–	5 dan	Affiliate of the Hanguk Kiwon.
Yun Junsang (윤준상, 尹畯相)	1987–	6 dan	Affiliate of the Hanguk Kiwon.
Kang Dongyun Kang Dongyun Kang Dongyun is a professional Go player.- Biography :Kang became a professional in 2002. In 2007, he was promoted to the rank of 7 dan. He is a disciple of Kwon Kab-ryong. He is now a 9-dan professional player.... (강동윤, 姜東潤)	1989–	8 dan	Affiliate of the Hanguk Kiwon.

Taiwan

Name	DOB–DOD	Peak rank	Notes
Zhou Junxun Zhou Junxun Zhou Junxun is a Go player.-Biography:Zhou was born in Taipei, Taiwan. Unlike other Taiwanese Go players, he stayed and became a professional in Taiwan. Zhou became a professional in 1993. He would later advance to 7 dan in 1997, then finally 9 dan in 1998... (周俊勳)	1980–	9 dan	Affiliate of the Taiwan Qiyuan.
Lin Zhihan Lin Zhihan Lin Zhihan is a Taiwanese professional Go player.-Promotion record:-Career record:2006: 42 wins, 19 losses2007: 35 wins, 18 losses2008: 65 wins, 27 losses2009: 33 wins, 18 losses... (林至涵)	1980–	8 dan	Affiliate of the Taiwan Qiyuan.
Chen Shien Chen Shien - Biography :He is a 9 dan professional in Taiwan. In 2000, he went to South Korea and studied under Kwon Kab-Ryong. He spent 5 years in Korea, before moving back to Taiwan in 2005.-Promotion record:-Career record:*2006: 43 wins, 20 losses... (陳詩淵)	1985–	7 dan	Affiliate of the Taiwan Qiyuan.

In the West

Name	DOB–DOD	Peak rank	Notes
Mingjiu Jiang Mingjiu Jiang Mingjiu Jiang is a Chinese professional Go player.- Biography :Mingjiu became 6 dan in 1982, and 7 dan in 1987. He has played for the Zhongguo Qiyuan, but currently resides in and represents the United States of America... (江鳴久)	1957–	7 dan	Affiliate of the American Go Association American Go Association The American Go Association was founded in 1935 to promote the board game of Go in the United States. Founded by chess master Edward Lasker and some friends at Chumley's restaurant in New York City, the AGA is one of the oldest Western Go associations... .
Csaba Mérő Csaba Mérõ Csaba Mérő is an amateur Go player.- Biography :Mérő began playing Go when he was 14. He is the son of Hungarian mathematician László Mérő. By 1996 he had already won the European Youth Go Championship and Hungarian Championship. After he finished secondary school he moved to Japan in 1999. He was...	1979–	6 dan (A)	Amateur 6 dan. First under 18 European Youth Champion European Youth Go Championship The European Youth Go Championship is a championship for young players of the board game of Go. It is held annually, and first started in Băile Felix, Romania in 1996... .
Dragoş Băjenaru	1980–	6 dan	Amateur 6 dan.
Jie Li (李捷)	1981–	9 dan	Amateur player from the American Go Association.
Alexey Lazarev	1960–	6 dan	Amateur 6 dan. Won Russia Go Championship 11 times. Two times European Go Champion European Go Championship The European Go Championship or Congress is the annual and main event of many organised by the European Go Federation for players of the board game Go. It consists of a 2-week open competition, one round per day, making a total of 10 rounds with a champion ultimately emerging - the player with the... (1991,1992).
Ilya Shikshin		7 dan (A)	Amateur 7 dan. Two times European Go Champion European Go Championship The European Go Championship or Congress is the annual and main event of many organised by the European Go Federation for players of the board game Go. It consists of a 2-week open competition, one round per day, making a total of 10 rounds with a champion ultimately emerging - the player with the... , 2 times Under 12 European Youth Champion European Youth Go Championship The European Youth Go Championship is a championship for young players of the board game of Go. It is held annually, and first started in Băile Felix, Romania in 1996... , 2 times Under 18 European Youth Champion European Youth Go Championship The European Youth Go Championship is a championship for young players of the board game of Go. It is held annually, and first started in Băile Felix, Romania in 1996... .
Artem Kachanovskyy		6 dan (A)	Amateur 6 dan. 2nd of the 2010 European Go Championship European Go Championship The European Go Championship or Congress is the annual and main event of many organised by the European Go Federation for players of the board game Go. It consists of a 2-week open competition, one round per day, making a total of 10 rounds with a champion ultimately emerging - the player with the... , 2008 under 18 European Youth Champion European Youth Go Championship The European Youth Go Championship is a championship for young players of the board game of Go. It is held annually, and first started in Băile Felix, Romania in 1996... .
Cornel Burzo		6 dan (A)	Amateur 6 dan.
Cristian Pop		7 dan (A)	Amateur 7 dan.
Ali Jabarin		5 dan (A)	Amateur 5 dan. 2009 European Youth Champion European Youth Go Championship The European Youth Go Championship is a championship for young players of the board game of Go. It is held annually, and first started in Băile Felix, Romania in 1996... .
Pal Balogh		6 dan (A)	Amateur 6 dan. 2 times under 18 European Youth Champion European Youth Go Championship The European Youth Go Championship is a championship for young players of the board game of Go. It is held annually, and first started in Băile Felix, Romania in 1996...

External links

Sensei's Library:ProfessionalPlayersGoStyles
Gobase.org
Recent pro games, daily updates
Western go professionals – A list of western go professionals

The source of this article is wikipedia, the free encyclopedia. The text of this article is licensed under the GFDL.

17th through 19th century

Japan

China

Japan

China

Korea

Taiwan

In the West

See also

External links