KeSPA announced on the 14th that it is officially opening a call for partners across various sectors to provide seamless support for the national esports team competing in the 2026 Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games.

The national esports team secured medals in every event at the previous Hangzhou Asian Games, steadily expanding its stature and influence under the robust brand identity of 'Team Korea of esports.' Building on this momentum, the association is now on the hunt for partners to join the world-class South Korean squad on the global stage.

The search spans roughly ten industries, including F&B, aviation, telecommunications, pharmaceuticals (healthcare), beauty (consumer goods), electronic equipment, performance tracking and scientific training gear, logistics, mobility, and event management. While other sectors are welcome to apply, please note that companies specializing in peripherals like keyboards, mice, and headsets, as well as gaming chairs, finance, and apparel, are excluded from this particular round.

Selected official partners will be granted rights to use the national esports team’s official IP, advertising rights on team apparel, branding opportunities at key events such as the departure ceremony, exhibition matches, and media days, as well as digital marketing and CSR collaboration rights.

Notably, as a sports organization that has inked a joint marketing agreement with the Korean Sport & Olympic Committee, KeSPA holds a unique advantage. Unlike other sports, with prior approval from the association and the committee, partners can run ads and campaigns using the national esports team's IP even during the Asian Games period, effectively bypassing standard ambush marketing restrictions.

For context, 'Team Korea of esports' previously signed partnerships with 12 companies across various fields ahead of the Hangzhou Asian Games. Subsequent analysis by a professional firm revealed that these sponsorships delivered an average return of 460% relative to the sponsorship fees paid.

Furthermore, official merchandise, including the team uniform, sold out four times both online and offline, proving both its commercial appeal and the fierce loyalty of the fanbase. The 'League of Legends National Team Evaluation Match,' held prior to the dispatch, drew 519,346 unique viewers, underscoring the massive interest and box-office potential surrounding the team.

The recruitment period runs from Monday, July 14th, until 3:00 PM on Friday, July 25th. Interested parties should submit the application form available in the notice on the KeSPA website (e-sports.or.kr) via the official email (biz@e-sports.or.kr). Please visit the official website and social media channels for more information.