KeSPA reinstated as ENC 2026 National Team Partner after selection dispute resolved

KeSPA issued its own statement confirming the agreement, specifying that Korean players will compete under the full official designation "Republic of Korea Esports National Team (Team Korea of Esports)" — a formal national team naming that appears to address the status concerns raised by the KSOC during the initial split. The association added that selection would proceed "in a professional and fair manner," language consistent with the merit-based system it had defended throughout the dispute.

No update on other territories

EF's statement does not address the status of China, Taiwan (originally listed as "Chinese Taipei") or Hong Kong (originally listed as "Hong Kong, China"), all three of which were removed from the ENC's official website around the time of the KeSPA split. EF had previously said China's participation was being finalised through ongoing coordination with stakeholders and game partners.

The Esports Nations Cup is scheduled for November 2026 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

Full statement received from the ENC:

"KeSPA and the Esports Foundation have agreed to a continued partnership and a joint path forward for the Esports Nations Cup 2026, built on a shared vision to support the long-term growth of esports through structured international competition.

With alignment on values, operational standards, and national team structure, and in recognition of KeSPA’s established expertise and authority in Korea, the two parties have agreed that KeSPA will serve as National Team Partner and lead Korea's national team selection.

Korea’s national coaches and players will continue to be selected with professional integrity, in accordance with the partners’ regulations and competition standards. Ultimately, the players and coaches representing Korea will participate under the official “Team Korea of Esports” banner

KeSPA’s experience, leadership and contribution to the development of international esports have been instrumental to the worldwide recognition of the esports movement. The shared priority of the Esports Foundation and KeSPA partnership ensures that South Korea’s most talented players have the opportunity to showcase their skills and excellence on the global stage.

The Esports Nations Cup is a new global competition developed in partnership with international stakeholders, game publishers, and ecosystem leaders across more than 100 countries and territories, and we look forward to an impactful participation of Team Korea of Esports at ENC26."