In South Korea, the name Faker has become incredibly familiar, even for those who have never watched a League of Legends match or know nothing about esports. This is because, beyond just esports or League of Legends, Faker is widely recognized by the younger generation as a symbol of one of the greatest Korean players ever produced in sports in general and esports in particular. Recently, T1 also participated in Knowing Bros – a very popular game show in the Land of the Morning Calm, helping to bring the name of Faker closer to the general audience.
Recently, Faker once again made the LCK audience mention his name when he was personally referenced by the South Korean President in a speech during the president’s 17th discussion with the people. Specifically, the South Korean President opened his speech: “BTS and BLACKPINK of K-Pop, football player Son Heung-min, baseball player Kim Ha-seong, and esports player Faker are rare young individuals who have reached the highest level in the world.”
This is not the first time Faker has been honored. A few years ago, the media in the Land of the Morning Calm placed T1’s Mid Laner alongside BTS, player Son Heung-min, director Bong Joon-ho, and “Queen of the Runway” Kim Yuna, with the flattering title of “Five Great Treasures of Korea.” This is also an honor that only Faker has received, as there has been no precedent for other esports games in Korea like Starcraft II or Warcraft.
In 2023, Faker and T1 experienced numerous ups and downs before being crowned at the World Championship. This is not only a championship that ended T1’s years of drought on the international stage but also a long-cherished wish of Faker, since he cried after losing to Samsung Galaxy back in 2017.
With all he has contributed to League of Legends and esports as well as South Korean sports, Faker absolutely deserves these honors. And it would be even more perfect if in 2024 he could help T1 achieve the “Golden Road” to etch his name into the legendary hall established by Riot and await the “Demon King” to ascend to his throne.