Lee Sang-hyeok, more commonly known as ‘Faker’, has received the highest possible merit that athletes can achieve in South Korea. He was recently awarded the Cheongnyong Medal of the Order of Sport Merit, bestowed upon him by the nation’s president, Lee Jae-myung.
This medal recognizes Faker’s decade of contributions to the esports industry, maintaining a name as the most dominant League of Legends player ever to emerge. He’s the first esports competitor in history to secure a spot in the prestigious line-up of medal recipients.
Faker Recognized in New Year’s Ceremony
Faker was invited to the State Guest House in Cheong Wa Dae to receive his Cheongnyong Medal, recognizing his dedication and evolution in the esports industry over the last ten years.
For just over a decade, Faker has been dominating the League of Legends space, and has secured more world titles than any ofther competitor in the business. He has secured records in the domestic space in South Korea and has become synonymous with the ongoing success of the esports industry.
Many have dubbed Faker ‘the GOAT’ of esports.
Speaking after the medal ceremony, Faker said:
It’s an enormous personal honor to receive a decoration that represents the Republic of Korea. But I could not be standing here without the teammates and colleagues who have run alongside me up to this point.
This would have been impossible without the support of the fans who are always there giving me strength. I will continue to devote myself with my best effort in every moment, both in and out of competition, so that I can share positive messages and help raise the stature of Korean esports.
In social circles, Faker is seen as an eternal ‘good guy’ who never fails to deliver. He’s a stalwart competitor but also a wholesome, charitable, and polite individual who takes his success in his stride.
Would you consider yourself a Faker fan? Let us know what you’re thinking about this award on the Insider Gaming Discord server.
For more Insider Gaming coverage, check out what Microsoft’s CEO has to say about ‘AI slop’
Grant has been gaming for 30+ years and in the industry for 10+. You'll probably find him playing a post-apocalyptic game or an extraction shooter somewhere.
More from Grant Taylor-Hill
