The South Korean National Police Agency appointed professional e-sports player Lee Sang-hyeok, known as "Faker," as an honorary police officer on Wednesday [1].

The appointment leverages the influence of one of the world's most recognized gaming figures to combat the rising tide of illegal betting among young people. By positioning a global icon as a role model, authorities aim to destigmatize the act of reporting gambling addictions.

Lee is serving as a cyber-gambling prevention ambassador. Police said his consistent practice of self-management, concentration, and self-control makes him an ideal representative for youth [1]. His role focuses on promoting a voluntary reporting program designed to help minors exit the cycle of illegal online gambling [1].

This initiative follows the launch of a youth cyber-gambling voluntary reporting system on May 18 [1]. The system allows young people to report their involvement in gambling to receive help and avoid criminal penalties. According to police data, the program received 294 reports during its first month, spanning from May 18 to June 16 [1].

By June 16, the total number of voluntary reports received by the agency reached 806 [1]. The police agency believes that Lee's public image will encourage more youth to utilize these services, effectively reducing the number of minors falling into deep debt or criminal activity related to betting.

As an honorary officer, Lee will participate in campaigns and educational efforts to warn the public about the dangers of cyber-gambling. The agency intends to use his platform to reach demographics that are typically unresponsive to traditional government warnings.

“Lee Sang-hyeok becomes a cyber-gambling prevention ambassador to encourage youth voluntary reporting.”

This partnership signifies a shift in South Korean law enforcement strategy, moving toward influencer-led intervention to address digital crimes. By utilizing a figure like Faker, the National Police Agency is attempting to bridge the cultural gap between formal legal institutions and the gaming community, recognizing that peer-level influence is more effective than top-down mandates in curbing youth gambling.