Jinju to Host 2026 Asia Esports Championship

Gyeongnam Province and the city of Jinju are set to become the epicenter of Asian esports, hosting the '2026 Asia Esports Championship' (ECA 2026) from May 24 to 26. This international event will bring together elite esports athletes from seven nations, including South Korea, China, Japan, Vietnam, Thailand, the Philippines, and Mongolia, all competing at the Jinju Indoor Stadium.

The championship's lineup features six official titles recognized in the Asian Games, such as 'Battlegrounds Mobile,' 'eFootball,' 'Street Fighter 6,' 'Tekken 8,' 'King of Fighters XV,' and 'Eternal Return,' along with a demonstration sport, 'Steppin.' Jinju aims to leverage this event not just for its competitive gaming prowess but also as a 'K-Culture Festival for Everyone,' blending the dynamism of esports with the city's rich cultural heritage.

This event is particularly significant as it precedes the '2026 Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games,' offering a high-stakes preview for top-tier players. Jinju plans to transform the championship into a multifaceted festival, integrating diverse cultural experiences, interactive zones showcasing indie games from local developers, and promotional activities for regional characters. Visitors and participants will also be treated to Jinju's unique historical and cultural attractions, including traditional costume experiences, night markets, and the famed Jinju Namgang Yudeung Festival (Lantern Festival), aiming to leave a lasting impression and stimulate the local economy. The province and city anticipate over 3,000 visitors, viewing the championship as a crucial step in solidifying Jinju's status as a sustainable hub for culture, tourism, and industry.