Lee Sang-hyeok, known as Faker, was made an honorary police officer in South Korea and given the title of Senior Officer. He will help promote the Youth Cyber Gambling Voluntary Reporting System through videos and posters aimed at young people with online gambling problems.
The program pairs the campaign with a concrete incentive: young people who have overcome gambling addiction by faithfully participating in treatment programs may receive Faker's autographed uniform. Seoul Economic Daily said, “Lee is an esports player with high recognition at home and abroad and has consistently practiced the values of self-management and restraint throughout his long career, serving as a role model for young people.”
Lee Sang-hyeok and Seoul
South Korea has seen an uptick in online gambling, particularly among youth, and the reporting system is intended to reach that group directly. The appointment puts one of the most famous figures in global esports in front of a public health campaign that depends on participation, not just awareness.
Lee Sang-hyeok has already built a public profile beyond League of Legends. He is the first Korean eSports athlete to receive the Cheongnyong Medal and is due to appear on South Korean postage, while he recently debuted on a local Disney+ television program.
Riot Games and League of Legends
The campaign also sits alongside a wider industry contradiction. Riot Games opened sports-betting sponsorships for League of Legends teams a little over a year ago, while South Korea is now using Faker to push an anti-gambling message to younger users.
That contrast makes the reporting system the part readers should watch next. The new materials will be the practical test: whether the videos, posters and autograph incentive can draw young people into treatment programs and onto the reporting system at a time when gambling problems are rising.
