[All] [Latest] Why did Faker become more famous than the president? A comprehensive look at his unique career and legendary performance with T1!

Why is Faker said to be "more famous than the president"? The first inductee into the League of Legends Hall of Fame, one of Korea's "Five Great National Treasures" alongside BTS, and T1's historic three consecutive championships. We delve into the trajectory of Lee Sang-hyuk, a man who has become a cultural icon that transcends esports.

 

 

table of contents 1. The significance of being inducted into the first-ever Hall of Legends in LoL history 2. Their presence as one of the "Five Great National Treasures of Korea" alongside BTS 3. An overwhelming career that continued at the top for 12 years 4. T1 becomes the first team to win three consecutive World Championships and Faker's centrality 5. The essential reason why people continue to love Faker 6. The legendary story continues 7. Q&A: Frequently Asked Questions

 

 

1. The significance of being inducted into the first-ever Hall of Legends in LoL history

 

In 2024, LoL esports established the Hall of Legends, a hall of fame to which only one person is elected each year. This system recognizes not just the number of titles won or skill, but also the historical achievements and influence of players on the competitive scene and gaming culture as a whole. The first inductee was T1 mid laner Lee Sang-hyuk (Faker). This election is official proof that "Faker has become an icon symbolizing LoL and esports itself." With in-game events, commemorative skins, and even a special custom Mercedes-AMG SL 63, this is a cultural recognition that transcends sports.

 

 

 

 

2. Their presence as one of the "Five Great National Treasures of Korea" alongside BTS

In Korean online communities and social media, the term "Five Great National Treasures" is often used to describe cultural icons that represent modern Korea, and it is symbolic that Faker's name naturally appears among them.

 

Field	People/Groups
K-POP	BTS
Figures	Kim Yuna
soccer	Son Heung-min
baseball	Ryu Hyun-jin / Ohtani Shohei (based on popularity in Korea)
Esports	Faker (Lee Sang-hyuk)

Although this is not an official title, it carries a very strong meaning as it represents the public's perception of Faker. Faker is not just a "good player," but is recognized as one of Korea's cultural brands that the world can be proud of.

 

 

 

 

3. An overwhelming career that continued at the top for 12 years

 

While the average professional gamer's career spans two to four years, Faker has been on the world's highest stage for over 12 years. He has won the LCK 10 times, the MSI 2 times, and the World Championship an astonishing six times. This record is still in progress, and it's unclear whether anyone will ever be able to match it. His iconic nickname, "The Unkillable Demon King," is not simply given to those who are strong, but rather to those who "continue to create decisive moments on the biggest stage." Furthermore, the fact that he never left T1 throughout his career is an extremely significant part of the story of sports.

 

 

 

 

4. T1 becomes the first team to win three consecutive World Championships and Faker's centrality

 

In 2023, 2024, and 2025, T1 achieved an unprecedented three consecutive World Championship victories. T1's tactics were characterized by powerful lane play and fast game development, but it was always Faker's judgment and execution that produced the final blow that decided the match. In the extreme circumstances of the finals, players tend to hesitate, worrying about what will happen if they fail. However, Faker made the decision without hesitation in that moment, breaking through to seize victory. This was a power that was born not simply from physical strength or knowledge, but from vast experience and extremely strong mental strength.

 

 

 

 

5. The essential reason why people continue to love Faker

Before being a player who contributes to victory, Faker is a person who has the courage to not fear failure. He understands that being on the big stage brings ruthless criticism and responsibility, yet he still takes the fight to the decisive moment. His way of life itself gives empathy and courage to people in fields other than esports. Furthermore, he never boasts about the reasons for his success, but always speaks of learning and reflection. His words are symbolic.

 

"Experience is a process that makes you stronger."

 

His humility and honesty make him even more special.

 

 

 

 

6. The legendary story continues

 

Faker's career is already legendary, but the story isn't over yet. T1 remains one of the best in the world, and Faker remains at the center, controlling the game. The question that should be asked going forward is not "when will it end?" but "what new history will he write next?" A legend is not a record, but an ongoing story.

 

 

 

 

7. Q&A: Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. Is Faker really called the “national treasure of Korea”?
A. It's not an official title, but in Korean pop culture, she is often treated as a national symbol on the same level as BTS, Kim Yuna, and Son Heung-min, so it's only natural that she has come to be called that.

 

 

Q2. Why has Faker been able to stay at the top for so long?
A. His overwhelming experience, calm judgment, and mental strength that allows him to remain unwavering at crucial moments are what make him stand out from other players.

 

 

Q3. Are you nearing retirement?
A. At the moment, there is little sign of that. Faker himself has said that he can still grow, so the story continues.

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