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Faker (gamer)

Lee Sang-hyeok, known professionally as Faker, is a South Korean professional League of Legends player who has played for T1 since 2013.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 26, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Lee Sang-hyeok, known professionally as Faker, is a South Korean professional League of Legends player who has played for T1 since 2013. He is widely regarded as one of the greatest esports players of all time and is known for his long-running success as a mid laner.

Early life and entry into esports

Faker was born in Seoul in 1996 and became known for his skill in online play before entering professional competition. He signed with SK Telecom T1 in 2013 and began his career as a mid laner.

Professional career with T1

Faker has spent his entire professional League of Legends career with T1, becoming one of the most recognizable players in esports. His career has included sustained domestic and international success over more than a decade.

Championships and honours

He has won multiple World Championship titles, including in 2013, 2015, 2016, 2023, 2024, and 2025, as well as several LCK and Mid-Season Invitational titles. Sources also credit him with numerous MVP and player-of-the-year honours.

Legacy

Faker is widely described as the greatest League of Legends player of all time. His longevity, consistency, and impact on the game have made him a central figure in esports culture.

Key facts

  • Signed by SK Telecom T1 in 2013 as a 17-year-old after gaining recognition in solo queue.
  • Has remained associated with T1 throughout his professional career.
  • Has won multiple League of Legends World Championships, including titles in 2013, 2015, 2016, 2023, 2024, and 2025.
  • Has also won multiple LCK titles and Mid-Season Invitational titles.
  • Is commonly referred to by fans and media as the "GOAT" of League of Legends and the "Unkillable Demon King."

Frequently asked questions

Who is Faker?
Faker is the in-game name of Lee Sang-hyeok, a South Korean professional League of Legends player for T1.
What role does Faker play?
He is best known as a mid laner in League of Legends.
When was Faker born?
He was born on 7 May 1996 in Seoul, South Korea.
Which team does Faker play for?
Faker has played for T1 since joining the organization in 2013.
Why is Faker famous?
He is famous for his exceptional skill, long-term dominance, and multiple world titles in League of Legends.

References

  1. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Faker_(gamer)
    Supports: Real name, birth year, early reputation, and signing with SKT/T1 in 2013.
  2. The Chosun Daily — https://www.chosun.com/english/people-en/2024/11/04/TKTRBJDGO5D3DDIFU5P65X2JQM/
    Supports: Recent world title and description as a leading esports figure.
  3. Red Bull — https://www.redbull.com/us-en/faker-t1-league-of-legends-profile
    Supports: Career overview, reputation, and status as one of the all-time greats.
  4. Escharts — https://www.escharts.com/players/faker-south-korea
    Supports: Player profile, team affiliation, birth date, and tournament earnings.