Source: KeSPA

The Korea e-Sports Association (KeSPA) announced that South Korea claimed its first overall victory at the Esports Championships Asia 2026 (ECA 2026), held in Jinju, South Gyeongsang Province, on Sunday the 26th, reaching the pinnacle of Asian esports.

South Korea secured first place overall with a total of 2,625 points over the three-day event. The team earned 500 points each for second-place finishes in Fighting Games and PUBG Mobile, and added 625 points in Steppin by taking first and second place in the individual events and first in the team event. The overall victory was clinched with a first-place finish in the final event, Eternal Return, which added 1,000 points. As the overall winner, South Korea received the championship trophy and a prize of ₩17.9 million. Vietnam placed second with 1,685 points, and Japan finished third with 1,500 points.

In his closing remarks, KeSPA President Kim Young-man stated, "With over 120 athletes from seven countries—the largest scale in the event's history—competing across various titles, we have confirmed the significance and potential of this tournament." He added, "The friendships and experiences built by the athletes and officials from each country will serve as a valuable foundation for expanding international esports exchange and cooperation in the future."

ECA 2026 saw the highest number of participating countries since the event expanded from the previous Korea - China - Japan tournament to a regional Asian competition, and it was particularly meaningful as the first domestic hosting in three years. Notably, this marked the first time the South Korean national team has won the overall title since the tournament's inception. The event also served as a stage for many athletes expected to compete in the Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games to test their performance and gauge their competitiveness on the international stage.

During the ECA 2026, various side events organized by the association, South Gyeongsang Province, and Jinju City—including experience zones, pop-up stores, and a cosplay parade—were held around the Jinju Indoor Gymnasium. The venue was vibrant, drawing approximately 5,700 visitors, including esports fans and families. Cultural programs were also provided for the national athletes, allowing them to experience local traditions such as wearing Hanbok, riding the Kim Si-min boat, and visiting the Namgang Yudeung Exhibition Hall.

ECA 2026 was hosted by the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism and co-organized by the Korea e-Sports Association, South Gyeongsang Province, and Jinju City. The South Korean national team is sponsored by Sidiz, Logitech G, and Levion.