South Korea has long been known as a global hub for eSports, and the country’s influence in competitive gaming continues to grow. With the rise of major titles like League of Legends, StarCraft, and Overwatch, South Korean players and teams have consistently dominated the international eSports scene. In 2024, the country hosted the World Championship for League of Legends, where South Korean teams, including T1 and Gen.G, continued to showcase their prowess.
The success of South Korean eSports can be attributed to a unique cultural and societal shift. Gaming in South Korea is not just a pastime; it’s a legitimate profession. With government support, eSports has flourished, with dedicated gaming academies, large-scale tournaments, and massive media coverage. Players start training from a young age, honing their skills in professional gaming houses where they practice for hours each day.
Major corporations like Samsung and SK Telecom have also jumped on board, sponsoring teams and funding eSports events. South Korean players have gained celebrity status, earning substantial incomes through competition winnings, sponsorships, and streaming platforms.
South Korea is also at the forefront of integrating eSports into mainstream sports events. The inclusion of eSports in the Asian Games and potentially the Olympics is seen as a nod to South Korea’s global leadership in the sector. With the rise of new games and technologies like virtual reality, South Korea’s position in the eSports world is likely to strengthen in the coming years.