Faker appointed honorary police officer in Korea youth cyber gambling campaign

Professional gamer Lee Sang-hyeok, widely known as Faker, has been appointed an honorary police officer as South Korea steps up efforts to address cyber gambling among teenagers.

The Korean National Police Agency announced the appointment during a ceremony at its headquarters in Seoul, naming Lee a public ambassador for its youth cyber gambling prevention campaign.

As part of the role, the esports player will feature in promotional videos and posters designed to raise awareness of the risks associated with cyber gambling. The campaign will also encourage teenagers to use the police’s voluntary reporting program, which began on May 18 and runs through Aug. 31. 

Police selected Lee due to his profile among younger audiences and his professional career, which authorities said reflects qualities including self-discipline, concentration and restraint.

Teenagers who voluntarily report their gambling involvement can receive counseling from school police officers and gambling prevention specialists. Participants undergo addiction assessments and can subsequently be connected with treatment and rehabilitation services.

Authorities may also consider factors including the amount wagered, demonstrated remorse and progress in treatment when reviewing individual cases, potentially allowing leniency for eligible teenagers who voluntarily come forward.

The initiative comes amid broader efforts in South Korea to intervene earlier in youth online gambling cases, with authorities increasingly combining enforcement with prevention, education and treatment.

During the appointment ceremony, Lee donated a personally signed team jersey to teenagers who had successfully completed rehabilitation programs for gambling addiction.

Lee said he would use his position to help increase awareness among young people about the dangers of cyber gambling and encourage greater participation in the voluntary reporting program.