South Korea will issue a commemorative postage stamp honoring Lee “Faker” Sang-hyeok in October 2026. The Postal Business Headquarters under the Ministry of Science and ICT made the announcement on April 6. Faker is the first esports athlete to receive this honor in the country’s history.
The stamp will be titled “Esports Player Faker.” Korea Post has not revealed the final design or exact release date yet. Both will be announced through the agency’s official channels closer to October.
Why Is the Faker Stamp Significant?
Commemorative stamps in South Korea are reserved for historically important figures, events, and national milestones. The practice dates back to 1946, one year after Korea’s liberation from Japanese colonial rule at the end of World War II.
Previous honorees include figure skater Yuna Kim and K-pop group BTS. No one from esports or gaming had ever appeared on a Korean commemorative stamp before this announcement.
A source from the industry told Naver Sports that the stamp is a “gift for both fans domestically and internationally.” The announcement came on the same day as Faker’s 13th anniversary as a professional League of Legends player, adding a layer of timing to the news.
Faker’s Career and Awards
Faker debuted as a professional player in 2013 with T1 (then SK Telecom T1). He has since won six League of Legends World Championships, more than any other player in the game’s history. His most recent title came at the 2025 Worlds in Chengdu, China, where T1 completed an unprecedented three consecutive World Championship wins.
He also led the South Korean national team to a gold medal at the 19th Asian Games in Hangzhou. In 2024, Riot Games named him the first inductee into the LoL Esports Hall of Legends, a ceremony that recognized his contributions to the sport and the millions of fans he inspired over the years.
In January 2026, South Korean President Lee Jae-myung awarded Faker the Cheongnyong Medal, also known as the Blue Dragon Medal. It is the highest class of the Korean Sports Merit Award. President Lee praised Faker’s “outstanding meritorious services” in raising South Korea’s global reputation. Faker was the first esports athlete to receive the medal.
Faker’s Cultural Impact Beyond Esports
Faker’s reach extends well past competitive gaming. According to the “2026 Overseas Hallyu Survey,” conducted by the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism along with the Korea Foundation for International Cultural Exchange, Faker ranked among the “most influential Hallyu stars.” The survey polled people across 30 overseas regions who had experienced Korean cultural content.
His influence on Korean pop culture has continued to grow. In late 2025, he collaborated with McDonald’s. His skin collection in League of Legends now outnumbers the cosmetics available for nearly half of the game’s champion roster. He continues to compete for T1 as their mid laner heading into the 2026 season.
Public Consultation Period for the Stamp
Korea Post is conducting a 20-day public consultation period as part of the standard process for issuing commemorative stamps. The window runs from April 6 to April 25. During this time, individuals can submit objections or feedback via email with relevant details.
Given Faker’s popularity both in South Korea and globally, significant public opposition appears unlikely. According to Seoul Economic Daily, the stamp is part of a broader 2026 commemorative stamp schedule that originally included 16 editions covering themes like “Jeju Oreum” and other cultural topics.
What Comes Next for Faker in 2026
The stamp’s October release coincides with a busy period for Faker. The LCK season is underway, and both MSI and the Esports World Cup are scheduled before the stamp goes on sale. The 2026 League of Legends World Championship is also expected around the same time frame.
Faker has said he plans to compete for as long as he can. At 29 years old, he remains one of the most active and decorated players in League of Legends esports history. Whether or not he adds another World Championship to his name this year, the commemorative stamp cements his place in Korean cultural history alongside the country’s most recognized figures.
Frequently Asked Questions
When will the Faker postage stamp be released? Korea Post has confirmed the stamp will be issued in October 2026. The exact date and final design have not been announced yet.
Is Faker the first esports player on a Korean stamp? Yes. This is the first time an esports or gaming figure has been honored with a commemorative postage stamp in South Korea.
What is the Blue Dragon Medal that Faker received? The Blue Dragon Medal, or Cheongnyong Medal, is the highest class of the Korean Sports Merit Award. Faker received it in January 2026 for his World Championship wins and Asian Games gold medal.
How many World Championships has Faker won? Faker has won six League of Legends World Championships, the most of any player. His titles came in 2013, 2015, 2016, 2023, 2024, and 2025.
