Fortune Korea names Faker ‘Mr. Esports’ in anniversary issue

Naerlyn Published March 27, 2026

Fortune Korea just released its April issue as the 17th anniversary of the magazine. On the front page is none other than Lee “Faker” Sang-hyeok, wearing the title of Mr. Esports.

A legend for all League players worldwide, his influence in Korea goes beyond the realm of gamers. In his home country, he’s a mainstream celebrity.

Fortune Korea honors Faker, a leading figure in esports

Faker has an established place in Korean culture. The GOAT of League is one of the most famous personalities in the country. Just a few months ago, he made public appearances with South Korea’s Prime Minister.

The six-time World champion regularly appears in lists of top people. In this edition, Fortune Korea chose to feature him while looking for an example of “lasting power.”

Faker began his career when he joined SK Telecom T1 in 2013. The mid laner immediately made the headlines and became a World champion in his debut year.

Faker repeated his titles in 2015 and 2016, and achieved this feat again in 2023, 2024, and 2025. Faker is so popular and successful in League of Legends that the player has nine skins in the game. Check out our article on all Faker skins in 2026 to know what they are.

After 13 years of being at the top, Faker is the undisputed best player of all time, with a strength that does not fade even as the entire landscape of esports has changed. The very definition of lasting power.

The cover of Fortune Korea featuring Faker. Image source: Fortune Korea

Fortune Korea recognized Faker not just for his achievements, but first and foremost for his attitude.

Faker stated that he is not satisfied with just being a symbol of an era, and that he rather wants to be a standard for ambitious players as someone who is constantly improving.

No matter the weight of his trophy case or the duration of his career, he keeps seeing each tournament as a new challenge and a new step to grow from, and he keeps enjoying the game he plays.

With this mindset, Fortune Korea expects that the legend of Faker will keep shining for his serious and humble attitude even more so than for his unbeatable records.

Featured image source: Christina Oh / Riot Games

About Naerlyn

Naerlyn is an all-around League of Legends nerd, who can get passionate about just anything related to the game, and loves sharing that excitement with anyone and everyone in the community. Just… don’t ask him about top lane Leona if you had plans for the next hour.

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