At the end of 2021, the global LoL community focused its attention on T1 with the most important deal for the team at that time: renewing Faker’s contract. It was a turbulent year for T1, as they underwent an unprecedented “mid-season coaching change.” This coaching change, along with bringing Faker back to the Mid Lane position in the starting lineup, led T1 to the LCK Summer Finals in 2021, followed by the World Championship Semifinals later that year. The contract renewal required all parties to consider it very carefully, especially at a time when there were many reports about Faker’s declining performance.
At that time, and even in 2022, Faker received numerous offers from other major regions in the LoL scene, notably the LPL. According to various sources from the Korean media, T1 made very generous offers, combined with Faker’s affection for T1, which helped the team retain him after many years of competing in the LCK.
Recently, according to information revealed by Korea Net, the annual salaries of athletes in South Korea have been disclosed. This salary will apply to these athletes in 2024, or at least until they have a new contract. The top position goes to Lee Jung-hoo – a baseball player currently with the San Francisco Giants. In recent years, Asian baseball players have been highly sought after by countries worldwide, including the United States, where this sport is most prominent. Lee Jung-hoo’s average salary is approximately 17.1 billion won (over 319 billion VND).
However, the most surprising aspect is Faker’s position, as he ranks 6th among the 7 individuals, surpassing the superstar representing the “rich guy” Paris Saint-Germain in Ligue 1, Lee Kang-in. Accordingly, Faker’s average salary reported by the Korean media reaches up to 7 billion won (equivalent to over 130 billion VND). This is also the highest amount that an Esports player can earn in the LCK. Many evaluations suggest that this figure may include salary, bonuses, and other income sources that T1 provides for Faker.
For those who may not know, within T1, Faker is also the most visually prominent figure and is sought after by major brands. Faker has promoted both Mercedes and BMW, as well as Samsung and many other brands, both within and outside of Esports. Additionally, he derives income from scheduled livestreaming, team uniforms, World Championship merchandise, and other revenue sources.
Given what Faker has contributed to T1, the LCK, and the global LoL scene, this figure is completely understandable. It’s fair to say that at this point, Faker has achieved it all, from fame and a legendary career to wealth. And if he continues to maintain his income, it’s likely that Faker will end his career at T1, fulfilling the dreams of many of his fans and this team worldwide.