Faker joins Korean police fight against illegal online gambling
Six-time League of Legends world champion Faker has joined up with the police in his home country, South Korea, to fight against illegal online gambling.
The Korean National Police Agency said on Wednesday that it has appointed the world-renowned pro gamer, real name Lee Sang-hyeok, as an honorary police officer and ambassador.
“I am honored to be appointed as an honorary police officer and ambassador, and I feel a great sense of responsibility,” Faker said in comments to Korean media, “I will actively take part in ambassador activities, including widely publicizing to teenagers the dangers of online gambling and the self-reporting system.”
Faker recently celebrated his 30th birthday, with the occasion marked around the world. He will assume the role of “sergeant” in the Korean police.
Faker Can Positively Influence Young People
Yoo Jae-seong, acting commissioner of the Korean National Police Agency, said, “For youth online gambling, it is important to detect it before the problem deepens and begin counseling and treatment quickly.”
“We hope the positive influence of Faker will give courage to teenagers in need to report without hesitation,” he added.
As part of the campaign, Faker will star in the police’s promotional videos and posters for the “youth online gambling self-reporting system.”
Korea Battles Against Illegal Underage Gambling
Korea heavily restricts online gambling, with sports betting only available through the state-operated Sports Toto. This allows residents to wager on some esports events, but underground gaming cafes offer more chances to gamble on illegal platforms.
Last year, police shut down a $15 million illegal gambling network that targeted minors.
“The crackdown on illegal gambling sites is continuous, and we will take a strict stance, especially given the risks to teenagers,” said a police official after making 21 arrests.
In 2022, South Korea’s National Gambling Control Commission (NGCC) estimated the illegal gambling market was worth over $80 billion. With gaming immensely popular in the country, esports betting may contribute a substantial amount of that.
