Faker returns for third Asian Games: 'I consider this a privilege'
Lee "Faker" Sang-hyeok will represent South Korea at the 2026 Asian Games in Aichi-Nagoya, marking his third appearance for the national team. The mid laner aims to secure a second consecutive gold medal in League of Legends, having helped his country win in 2023. Speaking at the departure ceremony in Seoul, Faker described returning to the tournament as a privilege and highlighted the unique responsibility that comes with competing on such a global stage.
Faker emphasized that while every competition is important, the Asian Games hold special significance because they attract attention beyond the regular esports audience. He noted that the event can instill a sense of national pride in the general public, which adds a certain amount of pressure and responsibility to his performance.
"My goal is to give my all in every international competition and do my best in my assigned role," Faker stated. The South Korean roster includes Choi "Zeus" Woo-je, Kim "Canyon" Geon-bu, Kim "Zeka" Geon-woo, Lee "Gumayusi" Min-hyeong, and Ryu "Keria" Min-seok. Zeus, Faker, and Keria were also part of the team that won gold at the 2023 edition.
Head coach Kang "Hirai" Dong-hoon confirmed that the team's objective remains unchanged despite China's withdrawal from the tournament. "Once the withdrawal of China was confirmed, we set a unified goal with the players, regardless of who our opponent would be. Our goal is to win the gold medal with a strong performance," Hirai said.
The 2026 Asian Games will take place from September 19 to October 4 in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan. South Korea will compete in nine of the eleven esports disciplines, including League of Legends. Additionally, Park "PHR" So-yeon will represent South Korea in Identity V, becoming the first female esports representative from the country at the Asian Games.
PHR, who has competed professionally since 2021 and previously appeared at two World Championships, acknowledged that her participation could help create a path for more women interested in competitive gaming. "If I pave the way, other female gamers who are passionate about video games like me will emerge," she said.
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