Highlights:

  • South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol addressed citizens during the 17th policy discussion.
  • The focus was on addressing the concerns of South Korea's youth.
  • President Yeol mentioned esports legend Faker among other global stars from South Korea.

 

South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol recently engaged in his 17th public livelihood debate, where he addressed the nation's citizens. The discussion primarily centered on youth policies, covering areas such as support for college tuition, housing, and childcare. Held at Ivex Studio in Gwangmyeong, Gyeonggi, South Korea, the town hall meeting saw President Yeol propose various policies aimed at addressing the concerns of South Korea's youth.

 

In his speech, President Yeol highlighted several prominent figures from South Korea who have made significant global impacts, including K-pop sensations BTS and Blackpink, soccer star Son Heung-min, baseball player Kim Ha-seong, and esports athlete Lee "Faker" Sang-hyeok.

President Yeol's mention of Faker came in the context of the government's commitment to developing the global capabilities of young people. He emphasized initiatives such as international student exchange programs and working holidays to provide opportunities for South Korean youth on the world stage.

 

While this recognition was a notable moment for Faker, it also sparked humorous reactions from Western fans, with some drawing comparisons to their own governments' treatment of esports.

 

This isn't the first time President Yeol has publicly praised eSports. In November 2023, he congratulated T1 on their fourth League of Legends Worlds victory, highlighting South Korea's success in esports at international events like the Hangzhou Asian Games 2022, where South Korea won four medals in eSports.

 

President Yeol has also pledged government support to ensure South Korea's video game industry remains globally competitive and continues to lead the international esports scene.