On-site Meeting with eSports Stakeholders in Gwangju
Discussing Industry Development... "Social Perceptions Must Change First"
Lee Jae Myung, the Democratic Party presidential candidate, visited an eSports arena, experienced a game firsthand, and discussed ways to develop the eSports industry with related officials.
On the afternoon of the 17th, Lee visited the eSports arena located within Chosun University in Gwangju and held an on-site discussion on the eSports industry with industry stakeholders.
Appearing at the meeting wearing the uniform that the national eSports team wore during the 2023 Hangzhou Asian Games, Lee introduced himself as "Lee Jae Myung, a novice pro gamer," drawing laughter from the audience.
The meeting was attended by former StarCraft pro gamer Park Jungseok, head of OK Savings Bank Brion eSports, and DRX player Bae Jaemin, known as 'Knee,' among others.
On this day, Lee played the game 'League of Legends' together with Director Park. While learning to control the character 'Blitzcrank,' Lee said, "I can't memorize the direction keys. It's too difficult, so I gave up," raising both hands and laughing. He then joked to player Bae, "How can you manage this at your age?"
Lee Jae Myung, the Democratic Party presidential candidate, is experiencing the game 'League of Legends' at the eSports arena located in Chosun University, Donggu, Gwangju on the afternoon of the 17th. Photo by Yonhap News
During the subsequent discussion, policy measures for the development of the eSports industry were discussed. Lee said, "We were far ahead in the game industry, but under the conservative government, the industry was severely suppressed and has since shrunk significantly."
He added, "During the Park Geun Hye administration, games were regulated like drug addiction, which led to us being overtaken by China at the time," expressing his regret.
Lee also emphasized the importance of improving social perceptions of gaming, saying, "Thanks to player Lim Yo Hwan, it became known as a viable profession, but there is still a lack of awareness, and there is a tendency to view gaming as a form of deviance."
He continued, "Whether at the central or local government level, it is important not to treat gaming like substance addiction, and support can only come after that."
Lee added, "eSports is also a type of cultural industry that deserves special attention. We must focus on developing content, utilizing facilities, and fostering players, as well as on developing its potential markets."
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