David Yongtaek “Chino” Rheem

David Yongtaek Rheem, also known as “Chino,” is an American professional poker player from Florida who resides in Los Angeles. He boasts an impressive record, having accumulated over $15.2M in live tournament earnings and three-time World Poker Tour Champion.

David Yongtaek Rheem: Early Life

David Yongtaek Rheem grew up in Florida. He finished high school in 1998 and moved to Los Angeles to pursue his poker career. He became a regular player at the Seminole Hollywood casino at the age of 18. As he began playing poker, he met Michael Mizrachi and his brother, who recognized his dedication and natural talent in the game and coached him.

David Yongtaek Rheem: Live Tournament Participation

Rheem’s first recorded live cash occurred in June 2004 at Hollywood Park Endless Summer in Inglewood. He finished 3rd place in a $75 + 15 No Limit Hold’em, departing with $1,165.

At the 39th WSOP in July 2008, he competed in the $10,000 World Championship No Limit Hold’em, Rheem achieved his biggest live cash of $1,772,650 placing 7th.

In December of the same year, he clinched 1st place and won $1,538,730 in a $15,000 + $400 No Limit Hold’em event at the 2008 Doyle Brunson Five Diamond World Poker Classic in Las Vegas.

August 2011 brought another victory as Rheem won $1,000,000 in a $20,000 No Limit Hold’em Six Handed at the 2011-12 Epic Poker League – Event 1 in Las Vegas.

Rheem continued his winning streak in May 2013, participating in the $25,000 + 500 WPT World Championship in Las Vegas. He earned $1,150,297.

In April 2016, he emerged victorious by claiming his 3rd WPT championship title in a $10,000 No Limit Hold’em – WPT Seminole Hard Rock Finale #22 and cashed $705,885.

Rheem on Online Tournament

In addition, in August 2021, he participated in a $5,000 No Limit Hold’em at the WSOP at GGPoker (International). He placed 137th and took home $25,681.

In December of the same year, he finished 59th place and cashed $1,186 in a $525 No Limit Hold’em – Main Event 8-Max at the WSOPC Harrah’s Las Vegas.

Other Live Tournament Achievements

• 1st place No Limit Hold’em at Bellagio Weekly Tournaments ($33,020)
• 3rd place WPT Bay 101 Shooting Star ($521,660)
• 3rd place Aussie Millions Poker Championship ($296,137)
• 1st place PGT Heads Up at PokerGO Tour in Las Vegas ($400,000)

Conclusion

David Yongtaek Rheem, “Chino,” is a highly accomplished poker player from Florida. Renowned for his exceptional tournament success and earnings surpassing $15.2M.

Rheem started his career in Los Angeles after high school. His dedication has led to multiple major wins, including three World Poker Tour titles.