KeSPA Resolves ENC 2026 Dispute With Esports Foundation, Confirms Team Korea Participation
The Korean Esports Association (KeSPA) and the Esports Foundation have resolved their dispute regarding the Esports Nations Cup 2026. In a statement posted on KeSPA's X account, they confirmed both organizations will continue their partnership for ENC 2026.
The statement confirmed that KeSPA will lead South Korea's national team selection process as the tournament's National Team Partner. Korea's final roster will compete under the official "Republic of Korea Esports National Team (Team Korea of Esports)" banner.
[공동 성명] 대한민국 e스포츠 국가대표 ENC26 참가 합의
— 한국e스포츠협회 (KeSPA) (@kespa) May 9, 2026
한국e스포츠협회(KeSPA)와 e스포츠재단(Esports Foundation)은 체계적인 국제 대회를 통해 e스포츠의 장기적 성장을 지원한다는 공동 비전을 바탕으로, 2026 e스포츠 네이션스 컵(Esports Nations Cup 2026)을 위한 파트너십을 지속하고… pic.twitter.com/5EOrQEilCN
This update follows earlier reports that KeSPA was considering withdrawing from ENC 2026 over national team selection concerns. As previously reported, Seoul Sports claimed that KeSPA believed attempts were being made to influence Korea's roster formation.
Those concerns reportedly conflicted with KeSPA's established national team selection system and operational standards. An esports official previously told Seoul Sports that outside involvement in national team formation "went too far."
KeSPA to Lead Korea's ENC 2026 National Team Selection
According to the joint statement, KeSPA and the Esports Foundation reached alignment on values, operational standards, and national team structure. The statement also recognized KeSPA's expertise and authority within South Korea's esports ecosystem.
KeSPA will oversee the selection of Korea's national coaches and players for ENC 2026. Both organizations stated that the selection process will continue in a professional and fair manner. The statement added that roster decisions will follow the regulations of both organizations and the tournament's competitive standards.
Esports Foundation Highlights KeSPA's International Esports Contributions
The joint statement praised KeSPA's leadership and contributions to international esports development. Both organizations stated that KeSPA played an important role in helping esports gain global recognition. The statement also emphasized a shared commitment to long-term esports growth through structured international competition.
According to the announcement, both organizations want Korea's top esports players to showcase their talent on the global stage.
What Is the Esports Nations Cup?
The Esports Nations Cup is an international esports tournament held in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The competition is supported by the Esports World Cup Foundation and international esports stakeholders. Unlike traditional esports events, the ENC features national teams instead of organization-based rosters.
ENC 2026 is expected to include participants from more than 100 countries and regions. With the agreement finalized, Team Korea of Esports is expected to officially participate in ENC 2026 under KeSPA's leadership.
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This story was originally published May 12, 2026 at 3:55 PM.