South Korea could allow esports betting through its Sports Toto system by 2028, marking a potential change for the country’s rapidly growing esports industry.
According to a report by Sheep Esports, South Korea is considering expanding its legal sports-betting system to include esports. The proposal comes as the country prepares changes to its sports-betting system, including the introduction of real-time betting.
Esports Could Join Sports Toto
Sports Toto is South Korea’s legal sports-betting system, with part of its revenue supporting the country’s sports development.
Esports could be considered for inclusion alongside traditional sports. However, esports betting has not been officially confirmed yet. A selection committee is expected to determine which esports competitions could qualify under the proposed system.
The possibility could be particularly important for South Korea, which has one of the world's most established competitive gaming scenes.
LCK and KeSPA Could Be Important
South Korea's esports ecosystem includes major competitions such as the League of Legends Champions Korea (LCK), while the Korea e-Sports Association (KeSPA) plays an important role in the country's esports industry.
If esports is eventually included in Sports Toto, major professional competitions could potentially become part of the regulated betting system. However, which games or tournaments would qualify has not yet been decided.
What Happens Next?
The proposed changes are expected to develop over the coming years, with 2028 being discussed as a possible target for the introduction of real-time betting and potential esports participation.
For now, esports betting remains a proposal rather than an officially confirmed addition to Sports Toto. Further decisions from South Korean authorities and the relevant selection committee will determine whether esports becomes part of the system.
If approved, the move could represent another major step in the growing recognition of esports as a professional sporting industry in South Korea.