He definitely likes him but gaslights himself that it's all just competition. Sure, it was at first, but I feel like he's just plain in denial about it. He doesn't want to admit that he likes him too because he feels like it's him admitting defeat over his feelings. Him knowing Hyun liked him made his ego boost while ignoring his own feelings. It was a matter of pride and ego that's why he wouldn't admit he likes him too.
He definitely likes him but gaslights himself that it's all just competition. Sure, it was at first, but I feel like he's just plain in denial about it. He doesn't want to admit that he likes him too because he feels like it's him admitting defeat over his feelings. Him knowing Hyun liked him made his ego boost while ignoring his own feelings. It was a matter of pride and ego that's why he wouldn't admit he likes him too.