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Posted by Sophie-Ha Friday, September 29, 2023

Faker and Team Korea earn military exemption after claiming the gold medal in League of Legends competition at the Asian Games

AKP STAFF

On September 29, Team Korea emerged victorious in the League of Legends competition at the 19th Asian Games, thereby securing the coveted gold medal. A significant win, it bestowed upon star player, Faker, and the rest of the team, the rare privilege of exemption from compulsory military service.


Korea showcased exceptional skill, triumphing over Chinese Taipei with a 2-0 victory in the final round to secure the gold medal. Their most challenging contest was in the semifinals, where they overcame China with the same score. Notably, this year's Asian Games marked the inaugural inclusion of eSports as an official medal event, further establishing its legitimacy and esteem in the world of competitive sports.

Under South Korea's conscription system, all able-bodied men are required to serve in either the army, navy, or air force. This mandatory service, usually seen as a rite of passage, is a significant commitment. However, there are certain exceptions. Individuals who have brought national prestige and honors internationally can be exempted from this obligatory duty.

Athletes fall into this special category. Those who win an Olympic medal or a gold medal in the Asian Games can have their mandatory service waived as an acknowledgment of their contributions to the country's stature on the global stage. This recognition extends not just to traditional sports, but also to eSports, due to its recent recognition as a medal event.

Securing a military exemption in South Korea is a prestigious honor, often perceived as a national reward. With their recent victory, Team Korea has not only achieved a significant milestone in eSports but also ensured that Faker and his teammates receive this coveted exemption from full military service. However, as pointed out by Kevin Kim from Korizon Esports, the players will still be required to undergo three weeks of basic training and fulfill 544 hours of community service.

Fans are celebrating this monumental event and commented, "Wow, congrats," "Team Korea was awesome," "Congrats Faker," "Congratulations Zeus, Kanavi, Chovy, Faker, Ruler, and Keria," "Wow, this is so awesome," "I'm so proud of them, everyone congrats," "Wow," "This is such a big accomplishment, congrats," and "So crazy. Congrats to the team."

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RealestStan
RealestStan1,048 pts Friday, September 29, 2023 0
Friday, September 29, 2023

Woah congrats deserved 🎉

23 (+37 / -14)
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Titinator
Titinator4,918 pts Friday, September 29, 2023 0
Friday, September 29, 2023

Congrats 🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉

19 (+31 / -12)
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