UPDATE: Riot Games has just announced a critical ethics and conduct training session for 150 players and coaches ahead of the highly anticipated 2026 LCK season and the upcoming LCK Cup. The program, conducted on January 2, 2026 at the LCK Arena in LoL Park, Seoul, was designed to establish integrity and uphold standards within the League of Legends Champions Korea (LCK).
The four-hour session focused on essential topics including competitive operations, updated rules, and athlete responsibilities. This initiative is crucial for maintaining the integrity of the league, especially as it gears up for the new competitive year. Key highlights included briefings on format adjustments for the 2026 season and new guidance on “Coach Comms” set to debut during the LCK Cup group stage.
The ethics training also covered Riot’s global esports code of conduct and introduced disciplinary policies aimed at ensuring fair play. This proactive measure underscores Riot Games’ commitment to aligning players and coaching staff with evolving regulations.
In a groundbreaking addition, the training featured mandatory anti-doping instruction led by the Korea Anti-Doping Agency, preparing participants for the upcoming 2026 Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games. The segment detailed testing procedures and player rights, emphasizing the importance of clean competition.
Attendees were divided into specialized tracks based on experience. First-year players received invaluable insights into standard player contracts from attorney Ahn Chan-sik of Law Firm Chungjeong. This session focused on contract structures and dispute resolution, equipping rookies with the knowledge they need to navigate their professional careers.
Veteran players, with two or more years in the league, participated in a sportsmanship seminar led by Kim Jin-hoon from the Sports Ethics Center. This session highlighted respect for teammates and adherence to competition rules, reinforcing the core expectations of professional conduct in esports.
The LCK, recognized as one of six major regional League of Legends esports leagues globally, has operated under a single-season format since 2025, running from April to September with 10 teams. In addition to domestic competitions, LCK teams frequently participate in international events, including the Mid-Season Invitational and the League of Legends World Championship.
Riot Games emphasizes that this education initiative is a critical step towards ensuring all players and staff are well-prepared and informed as they enter the new season. The league is set to kick off with its 2026 Season Opening Event on January 9, 2026, promising an exciting year ahead for fans and competitors alike.
As the esports landscape evolves, these developments signal Riot’s dedication to maintaining high standards of conduct and professionalism in competitive gaming. Stay tuned for more updates as the LCK prepares for another thrilling season!