Faker Temple becomes South Korea’s latest tourist hotspot

Christine

Christine

Although the Faker Temple in South Korea is not literally a temple, fans can still visit to worship League of Legends’ GOAT.

Faker Temple, a special pop-up exhibition celebrating Lee "Faker" Sang-hyeok's induction into the Hall of Legends, has become a popular attraction among League of Legends (LoL) fans in South Korea. This limited-time event runs from May 29 to June 16 and is located at HiKR Ground in Seoul.

How impactful is Faker in South Korea?

Faker has been honored as the first-ever inductee into the Hall of Legends, celebrating his exceptional mastery of LoL, numerous contributions to the esports industry, and his ability to inspire millions of fans worldwide.

LoL, as one of the most popular game among South Korean youth, has seen Faker bring numerous trophies to the country which includes four World Championships, two Mid-Season Invitational (MSI) titles, a Rift Rivals victory, an Intel Extreme Masters (IEM) Katowice title, and a gold medal at the 2022 Asian Games. These achievements have solidified his status as a hero among South Korea's esports fans.

Over his more than 10-year career, Faker has gained recognition not only from esports fans but also from South Korean celebrities such as K-pop artists BTS and Super Junior's Heechul, as well as hip hop and R&B talent Zion.T.

South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol has also acknowledged Faker's impact. In a speech, he praised Faker alongside other South Korean youth who have risen to global prominence, including K-pop groups BTS and BLACKPINK, soccer player Son Heung-min, and baseball player Kim Ha-seong.

President Yoon also congratulated Faker's team, T1, on their historic fourth League of Legends World Championship, stating, "Dear T1 players, I wholeheartedly congratulate your first World Championship in seven years, your fourth World Championship."

What's inside Faker Temple?

The Faker Temple spans the 1st, 2nd, 3rd, and 5th floors (no, there is no 4th floor), with most of the areas feature museum-like photo zones that commemorate Faker's legacies.

Upon entering the Faker Temple on the 1st floor, fans receive a brochure to participate in a stamp relay event with nine mini-events to enjoy. Those who collect all nine stamps can redeem merchandise on the 5th floor.

Faker Quote Stairs (Image via Minimap)
Faker Quote Stairs (Image via Minimap)

On the same floor, fans will find a large image capturing Faker's "Thumbs Up Moment" and the "Faker Quote Stairs" where they can read Faker's iconic quote, "All roads lead to me," written in Korean, English, and other languages.

The 2nd floor features the "Train of Memories," which is a train-like space displaying footage of nostalgic moments from Faker's career, and the ''Shh Photo Zone," showcasing a statue of one of his most iconic gestures. There is also a "Worship Zone" where fans can literally worship Faker, with some even getting on their knees.

Train of Memories on the next floor of Faker Temple (Image via Minimap)
Train of Memories on the next floor of Faker Temple (Image via Minimap)

Fans can experience the Hall of Legends Ahri skin, available in the game starting June 12, and take the 20-question "FAKER Fan Test" to measure their knowledge about Faker as well. Scoring over 85/100 results in a free Faker holographic photo card.

On the 3rd floor, fans can explore additional photo spots, including the "Legends Photo Zone" where they can vote on their favorite legendary Faker moments, and the "Legendary Moment World Cup," which features the iconic Faker throne from the World 2023 teaser. There is also a "Cheer Sign Zone" where fans can write messages for Faker to read later.

Faker's Throne on Faker Temple's 3rd floor (Image via Minimap)
Faker's Throne on Faker Temple's 3rd floor (Image via Minimap)

The 5th floor offers a unique experience, showcasing book recommendations from Faker himself, who is known as an avid reader. Additionally, fans can find a "UNICEF Zone" to appreciate Faker's support in raising awareness for children's education. There's also an "Event Zone" where visitors can redeem free merchandise after completing the stamp relay challenge.

Faker Library on Faker Temple's 5th Floor (Image via Minimap)
Faker Library on Faker Temple's 5th Floor (Image via Minimap)

You can also virtually experience the Faker Temple through a vlog below, taken by Faker's former teammate, Untara.

That's all for now. Stick around on esports.gg for more news and updates.