Source: KeSPA

The Korea e-Sports Association (KeSPA, President Kim Young-man) announced on Monday the 20th that it has signed an industry-academic cooperation agreement with Dongyang University (President Choi Jae-wook) to foster professional talent in the esports industry.

The signing ceremony took place on Monday the 20th at Dongyang University’s Dongducheon Campus in Gyeonggi Province, with officials from both organizations in attendance, including KeSPA Secretary General Kim Cheol-hak and Dongyang University President Choi Jae-wook.

Through this agreement, KeSPA and Dongyang University will jointly develop and operate educational programs for esports professionals. They also plan to collaborate across various fields, including industry-related research, policy development, academic activities, event management, and content production. Notably, as Dongyang University has been selected as the host institution for the Korea Creative Content Agency’s '2026 Esports Professional Training Support Project,' the two organizations plan to launch industry-linked practical training and career support programs, such as global talent development and next-generation esports leadership courses.

KeSPA Secretary General Kim Cheol-hak stated, "This agreement will serve as a vital starting point for fostering future talent by closely linking the esports industry with education. We will build a sustainable talent development model through joint curriculum development, industry-linked internships, career support, and research and policy cooperation."

Choi Jae-wook, President of Dongyang University, stated, "As esports continues to expand into industry, culture, and future career paths, the role of universities is becoming increasingly vital." He added, "This agreement marks the starting point for building a new esports ecosystem that connects education, industry, and the local community, and we are committed to fostering interdisciplinary talent through our partnership with the Korea e-Sports Association."