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Macau, China, 5 February, 2025 – The Asian Electronic Sports Federation (AESF) has renewed its partnership with the Korea e-Sports Association (KeSPA) for a second consecutive term. The signing ceremony, held in Macau, China, signifies the continuation of a strategic collaboration between two key players in the Asian Esports ecosystem. KeSPA, recognized by the Korea Sport and Olympic Committee as the sole governing body for esports in Korea, has been instrumental in promoting Korean esports nationally and globally.

The partnership was formalized through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed by AESF President Mr. Kenneth Fok and KeSPA President Mr. Youngman Kim. This renewed alliance underscores a commitment to advancing, promoting, developing, and protecting esports in Asia. AESF and KeSPA aim to drive Asia’s leadership in the global esports market, unite the esports community, and shape an ideal esports ecosystem. Our efforts include the creation of manuals and guidelines that protect the rights and interests of stakeholders in esports, society, and the industry as a whole while addressing contemporary challenges that demand attention. 

^{Mr. Youngman Kim (left) and Mr. Kenneth Fok (right) during the MoU Signing}

The collaboration also focuses on practical initiatives to advance esports governance and infrastructure. Key areas of cooperation include the development and implementation of the Technical Official and Referee Development System (TORDS), Coaching License Program for esports, and the enhancement of best practices in National Esports Team Management. These initiatives aim to professionalize esports operations and elevate the standards of excellence in the industry. 

AESF President Mr. Kenneth Fok expressed his optimism by stating, “The renewal of our partnership with KeSPA reflects the strong trust and shared vision we’ve built to advance esports in Asia. This next chapter aims to go beyond our past achievements by focusing on impactful initiatives such as the TORDS, the Coaching License Program, and improved National Esports Team Management. These efforts will elevate professionalism and empower all stakeholders—athletes, referees, coaches, and team managers. I am confident this renewed collaboration will set new benchmarks for innovation, unity, and sustainable growth in the global esports ecosystem.”

KeSPA President Mr. Youngman Kim echoed this sentiment, stating, “KeSPA is humbled and honored to extend the strategic partnership with AESF. It is our firm belief that this renewal will bring positive impacts to the esports communities across Asia, unite esports stakeholders, and present productive ideas for sustainable development in the industry.”



This renewed partnership strengthens AESF and KeSPA’s shared commitment to advancing Asia’s leadership in the global esports industry. Through collaboration and innovation, we aim to ensure the industry continues to grow in a way that benefits all stakeholders in the esports industry.