2025

Jin, Yaewon; Kim, Se Jin

Asia is one of the most significant locations when discussing the development of the esports ecosystem and its culture. However, discussing esports culture wholistically in Asia is challenging, as different parts of the region have distinct gaming cultures and levels of development, and thus various cultural implications. South Korea is often viewed as the origin point of modern esports, creating general popularity among the younger generation. Yet, Japan had previously established a competitive gaming arcade culture. China has been contributing to the sustainability of esports with significant investments, large fandom, and government support. Southeast Asia and South and Central Asia are currently emerging, with rising popularity in mobile esports. By chronologically exploring the unique esports culture of different regions in Asia, this chapter will provide a deeper understanding of the genesis and development of esports and various factors that contributed to today’s global esports culture. Key highlights include: (1) regional differences in popular games and fan cultures within Asia are examined; (2) an analysis of how esports is integrated into Asian culture is offered; and (3) consideration regarding how Asian esports fans share passionate and enthusiastic support toward their favorite esports team and players is included.