The Rise of Gaming in South Korea: A Cultural Shift and a Young Gamer’s Journey

Son Si-woo vividly recalls the day his mother switched off his computer during a pivotal moment—an interview that could propel him into the realm of professional gaming. Despite her concerns about his gaming habits, Son’s journey took a remarkable turn after he won an amateur tournament, earning a prize of 2 million won (approximately £1,000). This success not only validated his ambitions but also shifted his parents’ perception of his gaming aspirations.

Fast forward to today, Son, who now goes by the name Lehends, stands as a champion in League of Legends, playing for the renowned Nongshim RedForce— a team backed by one of South Korea’s most significant food companies. His career trajectory mirrors a broader transformation regarding the perception of gaming in South Korea.

A New Narrative on Gaming

In a striking declaration made in October, President Lee Jae Myung stated, “games are not addictive substances.” This marked a departure from 2013, when there was a push to categorize gaming alongside major social addictions like drugs and gambling. This paradigm shift has coincided with a booming gaming market, which has seen significant growth—expanding by 47% from 2019 to 2023, reaching a staggering value of 22.96 trillion won (£11.7 billion). The gaming industry accounts for nearly two-thirds of all Korean content exports, eclipsing other cultural sectors, including music and film.

The esports scene is a vital part of this ecosystem. As of 2023, it was valued at approximately 257 billion won (£128 million). While this might seem small compared to the overall industry, its impact on marketing and game promotion is substantial. Today, South Korea ranks fourth globally in gaming market share, following the United States, China, and Japan.

From Restrictions to Embracing Esports

The transformation has been nothing short of dramatic for a nation that previously imposed curfews on teenagers to limit online gaming. Now, gaming is regarded as a credible career path and a strategic industry. This evolution began in the late 1990s when South Korea invested heavily in broadband infrastructure, leading to the rise of internet cafés, known as PC bangs. There are now around 7,800 of these cafes operating across the nation.

By the late 2000s, professional gaming tournaments for titles like StarCraft were drawing massive crowds. Corporate sponsorships began flooding in, with major players such as Samsung and SK Telecom investing in teams and events. Fast forward to today, and educational institutions are offering esports-focused programs, with many schools training students to excel in this competitive field.

Chasing Dreams with High Stakes

At the Nongshim Esports Academy in the Guro district, young athletes train hard, huddled over their screens in a space designed for focus and productivity. Among them is 22-year-old Roh Hyun-jun, who is currently on a break from studying mechanical engineering. He sees university as a backup plan, with his eyes set on achieving professional status as a League of Legends player.

“Playing team games fosters a true sense of unity,” Roh explains. “It’s not just about individual skill; it’s about everyone working together towards a common goal.” The academy he trains at charges around 500,000 won (£253) for a month of training and has produced 42 professionals since its establishment in 2018. However, the road to becoming a professional gamer is challenging, with only about 1-2% of trainees making it to the pros.

Training sessions are rigorous, resembling elite sports preparations, with extensive hours dedicated to gameplay analysis and mental coaching. Successful players can earn substantial incomes, often surpassing six figures annually when combining salaries, sponsorships, and tournament winnings.

According to a recent survey, being a professional gamer ranks high among aspiring careers for elementary school boys. However, the lifespan of such careers can be short, typically concluded before the age of 30, particularly for Korean men due to mandatory military service.

A Competitive Landscape

Lehends’ teammate, Hwang Sung-hoon, known as Kingen, emphasizes the ruthless nature of the industry: “If you’re not good enough, you have to give up quickly. It’s that kind of market.” Aiden Lee, secretary-general of the League of Legends Champions Korea (LCK), asserts that South Korea’s dominance in esports—evidenced by LCK teams winning 10 out of the last 15 world championships—stems from a deeply competitive upbringing. “The level of concentration and the intensity of practice are unparalleled,” he adds.

As the government recognizes the need for balance, they have established seven state-supported “healing centers” for young gamers who may be excessively immersed in gaming. Standard contracts also regulate training hours for youth players, helping to promote a healthy competitive environment.

With aspirations set high, Roh remains unwavering: “I want to be remembered as the most renowned pro gamer. I’m committed to doing my best on this journey.”