South Korea Takes League of Legends Gold at Asian Games 2026

For the second consecutive edition, South Korea has claimed gold in League of Legends at the Asian Games, defeating Chinese Taipei 3-0 in the 2026 final. While some players have secured the title once again, the roster also features new gold medalists.

South Korea Claims Another Asian Games Gold

On October 2, South Korea once again showcased one of the most stacked League of Legends rosters, bringing multiple League of Legends World Championship winners together to compete for their nation.

In the Grand Final, they took control early and closed out the series with a clean 3-0 victory.

Lee “Faker” Sang-hyeok, Choi “Zeus” Woo-je, and Ryu “Keria” Min-seok secured their second Asian Games gold medal, while Kim “Canyon” Geon-bu, Kim “Zeka” Geon-woo, and Lee “Gumayusi” Min-hyeong claimed their first-ever gold in the competition.

The tournament was marked by some unusual obstacles, including a decision that forced players to use wired mice for the remainder of the competition.

According to South Korean newspaper JoongAng Ilbo, wireless mice were banned due to concerns over communications and the venue’s wireless signal environment.

While some players admitted they were not entirely comfortable with the change, the South Korean team still managed to secure the title and bring the gold medal home.

South Korea closed the 2026 Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games with five esports medals across nine events: two gold, one silver, and two bronze.

Military Service Exemption

For South Korean players, winning the Asian Games carries significant personal implications, as winning a gold medal can grant an exemption from mandatory military service.

In South Korea, male citizens are required to complete mandatory military service as part of the country’s national defense system. Depending on the military branch, active-duty service typically lasts between 18 and 21 months.

However, athletes who win gold medals at major international competitions such as the Olympics or Asian Games can qualify for special military service benefits. Their achievements are recognized for their contribution to the country’s cultural prestige and international reputation.

Instead of completing regular active-duty service, eligible athletes can receive Art and Sports Personnel status. With this victory, Canyon, Zeka, and Gumayusi will not have to complete regular active-duty military service.

LoL Players Exempt from Military Service

Several active South Korean players have also received military service exemptions through their achievements in international competitions over the years.

Alongside the 2026 Asian Games roster, several other players have earned military service exemptions through previous competitions, including Jeong “Chovy” Ji-hoon, Park “Ruler” Jae-hyuk, Park “Teddy” Jin-seong, Gwak “Bdd” Bo-seong, Moon “Cuzz” Woo-chan, and Seo “Kanavi” Jin-hyeok.

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Featured image credit: Team South Korea

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