South Korea’s e-sports industry, celebrated for its international successes, is facing growing concerns over the long-term well-being and career sustainability of its professional players. While the industry has flourished in terms of competitive achievements, questions are being raised about how to balance the demands of e-sports with education and the broader personal development of young talents.

Industry experts describe an ecosystem in flux, where the demands of high-level competition must be balanced with the need for sustainable career paths and players’ well-being.