After several twists and turns, the Korea e-Sports Association (KeSPA) and the Esports Foundation (EF) have joined forces once again.
In March, the Esports Foundation (EF) selected the Korea e-Sports Association (KeSPA) as its official partner for the '2026 Esports Nations Cup (ENC 2026)' in South Korea. Under the agreement, KeSPA was set to form the national team, oversee player selection, and establish an operational framework to support tournament participation and the development of esports.
However, one month later in April, a sudden announcement was made that the partnership had been terminated. Based on the statements from both sides, it was clear that friction had occurred during the national team's player selection process. As a result of the partnership's dissolution, the South Korean team set to compete in the '2026 ENC' lost the right to use the national team name and the national flag, effectively casting doubt on their participation.
Yet, with EF and KeSPA reaching a successful agreement, the '2026 ENC' has been given the green light. In a joint statement, the two sides announced, "Based on our shared vision of supporting the long-term growth of esports through systematic international competitions, we will continue our partnership for the '2026 ENC' and move forward with a unified direction."
Furthermore, EF has agreed to recognize the expertise and authority KeSPA holds within the domestic market. Consequently, KeSPA will lead the national team selection process, ensuring it is conducted with professional integrity and in accordance with the regulations and standards of both partners and the tournament. South Korean players will compete under the official title of 'Team Korea of Esports.'
The following is the full text of the joint statement from the Korea e-Sports Association and the Esports Foundation.
"The Korea e-Sports Association (KeSPA) and the Esports Foundation have agreed to continue their partnership for the Esports Nations Cup 2026, based on a shared vision of supporting the long-term growth of esports through systematic international competition.
Both parties have aligned their values, operational standards, and national team structures. Recognizing KeSPA's expertise and authority within Korea, the parties have agreed that KeSPA will lead the selection of the South Korean national team as the National Team Partner.
South Korean national team players will participate in the tournament under the official title of 'Team Korea of Esports.' The selection process for the national coaching staff and players will continue, adhering to professional integrity and the regulations and standards of both partners and the tournament.
KeSPA's experience, leadership, and contributions to the development of international esports have played a vital role in gaining global recognition for the esports movement. The joint priority of the Esports Foundation and KeSPA is to ensure that South Korea's exceptional players can showcase their skills and excellence on the global stage.
The Esports Nations Cup is a new global tournament developed in collaboration with international stakeholders, game publishers, and ecosystem leaders across more than 100 countries and regions. Both parties look forward to a meaningful participation of the South Korean national esports team in ENC 2026.
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