In the eSports universe, Lee Sang-hyeok, known as ‘Faker’, stands as a legend. Nicknamed “The Unkillable Demon King,” Faker has dominated professional gaming for over a decade, carving a legacy that few can rival.
The Rise of a Legend
According to Lifestyle Asia, Faker’s career began as a teenager, and he quickly ascended to the pinnacle of League of Legends (LoL). Widely regarded as the greatest LoL player of all time, Faker has achieved unparalleled success:
5x World Champion: The only player to win the League of Legends World Championship five times.
10x LCK Champion: A record-setting dominance in South Korea’s premier LoL tournament.
2x MSI Winner: A global showcase of his unmatched skill.
In 2024, Riot Games honored Faker as the first inductee into its Hall of Legends, solidifying his place in eSports history.
Net Worth and Earnings
Faker’s financial success mirrors his gaming achievements. Reports suggest that by 2020, his annual earnings from prize money, endorsements, and merchandise exceeded $5 million. By 2024, this figure had grown to approximately KRW 10 billion ($7.2 million) annually.
While his exact net worth remains unverified, Faker’s wealth is bolstered by high-profile endorsements and partnerships with brands like Nike, Red Bull, and Samsung.
Major Brand Endorsements
Faker is a magnet for global brands, often headlining advertisements that elevate his status beyond gaming. Notable deals include:
SK Telecom Ads: Co-starring with South Korean football icon Son Heung-min.
Razer Partnership: Exclusive Faker editions of gaming hardware like the Razer DeathAdder V3 Pro mouse.
Creative Artists Agency (CAA): A landmark sponsorship deal underlining Faker’s influence in eSports.
As part of the T1 team, Faker has also collaborated with BMW, posing with a BMW 4 Series in promotional campaigns.
Cultural Icon
Faker’s impact extends far beyond gaming. In South Korea, even those unfamiliar with League of Legends recognize his name. His contributions to eSports have drawn comparisons to legendary athletes, solidifying him as an icon of his generation.
With eSports continuing to grow, Faker’s legacy, and his net worth, are poised to expand further.
Photo: liquipedia
