Faker Cheongnyong Medal: The LoL Legend Makes History as Korea's First Esports Honoree

Saswata Mondal
Jan 7
2 min read

Faker once again proved why he is one of the best esports athlete ever lived on this planet

Faker wearing an orange sash and medal and Korean President are in an official room. Korean President claps while the Faker stands stoically.

League of Legends superstar Faker (Lee Sang-hyeok) just made esports history by winning the Faker Cheongnyong Medal, South Korea's highest sports award. On January 2, 2026, President Yoon Suk-yeol handed him the Blue Dragon Medal, the top honor in the Order of Sports Merit at a special New Year's event in the Blue House.

Faker is the first esports player ever to get this prize, usually saved for Olympic gold medalists and world champs.

It's a big nod to his unbeatable career: five Worlds titles, endless MVP nods, and turning LoL into a national sport. Fans and pros like Bang (his old teammate) are buzzing. Bang called it "overwhelming and emotional." This simple guide covers the award, why Faker got it, what it means, and fan reactions, all backed by fresh reports.

Faker Cheongnyong Medal Explained: What Is This Top Prize?

The Cheongnyong (Blue Dragon) Medal is Korea's biggest sports award—no one gets higher. It's part of the Order of Sports Merit with five levels, but Cheongnyong is level one.

Quick Facts Table:

Detail	Info
Full Name	Cheongnyong Medal (Order of Sports Merit, 1st Class)
Who Gives It	President Yoon Suk-yeol at Blue House events
Past Winners	Olympic golds, world champs (now Faker first in esports)
Meaning	Lifetime impact on sports + national pride

Faker stood with top athletes - huge moment for gaming.

Why Faker Won the Faker Cheongnyong Medal: His Epic Career

Faker earned it for 13+ years of LoL greatness with T1:

5 Worlds Wins: 2013, 2015, 2016, 2023, 2024 - most ever.
10 LCK Titles: Korea's top league.
MVP King: Worlds MVP 4x; inspired millions.

Achievements List:

First esports player with this medal shows gaming = real sports in Korea
Presented Jan 2, 2026, at New Year's sports ceremony
Bang's Post: "Proud... inspiration to many."

Fan Reactions and What’s Next for Faker?

X and Reddit exploded: 1K+ likes on clips, memes of Faker with presidents. Fans say it's "esports GOAT confirmed." Korea's esports (world's biggest) gets official boost—more funding likely.

Faker: Playing LCK Split 1 now; Worlds 2026 looms.

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