On the afternoon of July 19 (Vietnam time), South Korean media reported that T1 had decided to activate its legal system and officially file a lawsuit against those who attacked Faker online. For those who don’t know, before the LCK Summer 2022, T1 discovered that some individuals had even created a section on a famous forum in Korea, with posts containing attacks and insults directed at Faker. At that time, T1 announced it would thoroughly investigate the matter.
Returning to this incident, it can be seen as a very decisive move by T1 to protect its player. Although Faker is a contemporary legend in the League of Legends scene in Korea and esports in general, T1’s handling of this situation is indeed quite rare. This is because League of Legends is often seen as one of the esports with a rather toxic environment. Instances of players being attacked, including Faker himself, have become all too common. Very often, teams and players have to ignore these issues to focus on competition.
However, because of this, T1’s action has been warmly welcomed by the League of Legends community. According to many opinions, in Korea specifically and in the League of Legends and esports scene in general, “idol culture” has always been a controversial issue. Fans can elevate an idol or, in this case, a player to great heights, but there are also cases where others are dragged down to the depths. In League of Legends, no matter how famous a player is, they can become a “victim” of toxic elements.
Not only Faker but other legendary players like Ryu, Uzi, and Doinb… have also often been victims of attacks. However, everything then falls silent. Because teams may be aware or unaware of these attacks. Players themselves also prefer not to mention them to avoid prolonged trouble. Thus, these behaviors are inadvertently tolerated.
On the same day that T1 decided to sue those who attacked Faker, another incident occurred involving crazy fans and a team. This time the victim was KT Rolster (KT). Specifically, this team received parcels containing “dangerous items” (according to KT’s announcement). Accompanying this were harsh words directed at the team members.
Not only KT or Faker but also T1 and other teams in the LCK have often faced unpleasant things from a section of crazy fans. These behaviors, although not directly affecting them physically, will certainly impact the players’ mentality and competitive spirit. KT also announced that it has sought police intervention.
T1’s strong stance against those attacking Faker this time may set a precedent, encouraging teams to be bolder in seeking legal protection for their players. More importantly, T1’s action is expected to make teams aware that, with crazy fans, they must take firm action when necessary to protect their players. This definitely will not cause teams to lose fans, but could create goodwill by showing the community their efforts to protect the players.
It remains unclear what the outcome of T1’s lawsuit against Faker’s attackers will be, but it has certainly stirred up the League of Legends community. Following T1, it is likely that KT and other teams will also “follow suit”. And players will be better protected, at least compared to before, when facing criticism aimed at themselves, as well as towards their teams and families.