South Korea's League of Legends Team Secures Back-to-Back Gold at 2026 Asian Games
Written with artificial intelligence.
South Korea's League of Legends team triumphed over Chinese Taipei 3-0 in the grand final at the 2026 Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games, marking their second consecutive gold medal in the event. Faker made history by becoming the first esports athlete to compete in three consecutive Asian Games, despite not playing in the final match.
Historic Victory for South Korea
In a dominant performance, South Korea's League of Legends squad defeated Chinese Taipei 3-0 in the grand final of the 2026 Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games, achieving back-to-back gold medals. This victory is notable as it marks the first time a team has won consecutive golds since League of Legends was recognized as a full medal event. Remarkably, the South Korean team completed the tournament without losing a single match.
Faker's Legacy Continues
Lee "Faker" Sang-hyeok, often hailed as the greatest League of Legends player, further solidified his legacy by competing in his third consecutive Asian Games. Although he did not participate in the final match, Faker contributed to the team's success during the group stage and semifinal. He expressed pride in the team's achievement, stating, "At these Asian Games, winning the gold medal was the primary goal. We won gold, and I gave my absolute best throughout the process, so I have no real regrets."
Implications for South Korean Players
The gold medal not only adds to South Korea's esports accolades but also has significant career implications. Canyon, Zeka, and Gumayusi, who played in the final, earned military service exemptions due to their victory, allowing them to continue their professional careers uninterrupted. This exemption is crucial in South Korea, where mandatory military service can pose a serious obstacle for young athletes.
Tournament Overview
South Korea dominated the tournament, winning matches against Chinese Taipei, India, and Hong Kong in the group stage, followed by a 2-0 victory over Saudi Arabia in the semifinals. The grand final showcased a more competitive series than the score suggests, with South Korea executing impressive comebacks in the first two games before decisively winning the third.
Looking Ahead
With the 2026 Asian Games concluding, South Korea's esports delegation returns home with a total of five medals across nine disciplines, including two golds, one silver, and two bronze. As the esports landscape continues to evolve, South Korea will aim to defend its title at the next Asian Games in 2030.