T1’s announcement has “shocked” many fans
Since the transfer drama involving T1 and Zeus erupted, the greatest team in League of Legends history has faced numerous troubles. The situation escalated further with the drama surrounding T1 and Gumayusi. However, at that time, many T1 fans were ready to defend the management of this team with the argument that “T1 plays Esports, not an idol group, and changing players is understandable.” But recently, T1 has “hit back” directly at the fans who once defended them.
Specifically, in a report from Korean media, T1 recently signed a memorandum of cooperation with JWORKS – a variety show production company and a branch of the comprehensive entertainment company CJes Studios to train T1 players to become “Esports idols.” Naturally, Faker will be the focal point of the program.
This means that T1 truly aims to shape the image of an “idol” team. Not only must the players excel in their skills, but they may also need to embody the exemplary lifestyle of idols while enduring the pressures that idols face.
Community Reactions to T1’s Announcement
On many forums, not only neutral viewers but also T1 fans were taken aback by this move. This is because Esports players in Korea are viewed as athletes – a very high status. However, if they shift towards “idolization”, it could not only impact the players (having to livestream constantly to please fans, participate in fan meetings, and engage in entertainment activities…) but might also diminish the athletes’ image.
Some opinions suggest that this could be a contributing reason for Zeus’s departure and Gumayusi’s benching. However, these are merely speculations from the audience surrounding T1’s actions.
It can be understood that this is a move to generate additional revenue for the maintenance and operation of T1. However, perhaps this team has gone a bit too far, and for Esports or League of Legends fans, this is truly not something to be welcomed.