Faker, the League of Legends (LoL) pro gamer Lee Sang-hyeok, said, "I feel that games in Korea are increasingly focused on short-term revenue rather than inspiring people."
In a YouTube video released by the prime minister's office on the 20th, Faker met with Prime Minister Kim Min-seok and answered a question about "what do you feel is the biggest problem" in this way.
Faker said, "Esports is what Korea does best in the world, and I feel it is becoming more popular overseas, but compared to that, I know Korea is not yet No. 1 in the game industry itself," adding, "Like films or other content, I hope (games) will inspire and motivate people."
On the morning of the 18th, Prime Minister Kim invited Faker to the prime minister's residence in Samcheong-dong, Seoul, and held the "7th Debate Nation." The event was conducted in the form of Prime Minister Kim interviewing Faker.
Asked by Prime Minister Kim what he would say to parents who worry when their children aspire to become pro gamers, Faker said it was a "reasonable concern." He added, "Since it is realistically difficult to become a pro gamer, there will be parts where you have to compromise," and said, "If my child said they would choose (to become a pro gamer), I don't think I would readily allow it."
Faker cited exercise as his method for managing when his mentality wavers while playing a leadership role, a question raised by Prime Minister Kim. Faker said, "I think the body is so important that it accounts for most of mentality management," adding, "A few years ago I liked running, but my knees aren't so good, so I've been swimming a lot lately."
An avid reader, Faker also recommended the book I May Be Wrong. He said, "It's an essay about an office worker who rose to the top and then goes into the mountains to practice," adding, "It helped me a lot with mind control while working as a pro gamer."
Asked what fans mean to him, Faker said, "Receiving a lot of support and attention while living as a person is very meaningful," adding, "Receiving fans' attention and love has become the goal and purpose of being a pro gamer." He continued, "I want to keep working hard as a pro gamer and give fans a lot of good inspiration."
Prime Minister Kim said to Faker, "I thought it was really nice to see that one of the faces representing Korea has a sense of responsibility," adding, "Please continue to play a good role for our society and the nation."