Raising their game

Government apathy

Despite the growing international status and interest among prospective professional players, ROK government support for the e-sports industry, estimated in 2020 to be worth around 17.9 trillion won ($15.2 billion), has been lackluster, experts say.

E-sports and the gaming sector received 67.1 billion won of the 604.4-trillion-won national budget for next year.

But the country's Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism wants to do more, especially ahead of organized competitions such as the Asian Games, an official said without giving details.

In the meantime, the space has been filled with investments from big businesses and private educational institutes.

Instant-noodle maker Nongshim Co Ltd launched its professional League of Legends gaming team, Nongshim RedForce, late last year, joining other South Korean conglomerates that have seen potential in the industry.

Among them are SK Group's SK Telecom Co Ltd, Hyundai Motor Co affiliate Kia Corp, Hanwha Group's Hanwha Life Insurance and KT Corp.

"The e-sports industry continued growing, but the state-led support measures have been weak, with corporate sponsorships and private academies mainly having driven the industry," said Oh Ji-hwan, CEO of Nongshim E-Sports.