The renowned player of the game League of Legends, Lee “Faker” Sang-hyeok, has been appointed as an honorary police officer as well as an anti-cyber gambling ambassador by the National Police Agency of South Korea. The purpose of appointing him to this role was to raise people’s awareness about online gambling.
Police Give Faker Senior Rank
Faker, 30, was given the rank of senior policeman, the same rank held by officers who enter cyber investigation roles through competitive recruitment. The title is not merely ceremonial, and places him on the same professional level as trained police personnel in that career track.
As part of the appointment, the 6-time world champion will help the agency’s effort to combat online gambling among young people nationwide. He is set to appear in public awareness videos and posters that promote the National Police Agency’s voluntary self-reporting program for youth cyber gambling while also highlighting the risks and consequences of online betting.
The agency said his appointment is designed to encourage more young people to come forward and join the program. Faker’s reputation as one of esports’ most respected figures is expected to help him connect with younger audiences, given his status as a young, accomplished player and one of South Korea’s most recognizable esports names.
Previous Recognition And Campaigns
This is not the first state honor Faker has received this year. Earlier, he was awarded the Cheongnyong Medal for Contributions to Physical Education, the highest class of South Korea’s Order of Sport Merit, after T1 secured a historic 3rd consecutive League of Legends World Championship title.
Faker has also taken part in other campaigns tied to gambling prevention. In 2024, he was recruited by Hana Financial Group for a three-year program aimed at preventing teenage gambling and treating those who are already suffering from gambling addiction.
Faker on Responsibilities
In a statement released by the National Police Agency, Faker said he was honored to be appointed as an honorary police officer and public ambassador. He added that he felt a strong sense of responsibility attached to the role and intended to actively carry out his duties by raising awareness of the dangers of cyber gambling among young people and promoting the agency’s voluntary self-reporting program.
According to Yoo Jae-sung, the commissioner general of the National Police Agency, in the event of youth cyber gambling, early intervention becomes imperative. The importance of early detection of the problem and then beginning treatment becomes significant. He also said he hopes Faker’s positive influence will encourage young people who need help to come forward and use the self-reporting program without hesitation.
Preventive Measures Continue for Youth
This new position makes another addition to the list of public activities in which Faker participates. This is because his influence on people goes far beyond the world of competitive gaming. South Korean authorities are expecting his involvement to strengthen outreach efforts aimed at younger people who may be exposed to cyber gambling.
By linking the campaign to one of the country’s best-known esports figures, the National Police Agency is placing greater emphasis on awareness, self-reporting, and early support. Faker’s new role will center on reinforcing those messages through videos, posters, and other public materials tied to the prevention campaign.
Source: Gambling News
