The Korean National Police Agency announced today (July 22) that it has appointed world-renowned professional gamer "Faker" Lee Sang-hyeok as an honorary police officer and goodwill ambassador for cyber gambling prevention.

Lee is scheduled to participate in various cyber gambling prevention activities, including taking part in the production of promotional videos and posters for the youth cyber gambling voluntary reporting system operated by the police agency, to encourage self-reporting.

The police explained that Lee was appointed as an honorary police officer with the rank of "Gyeongjang" (senior patrol officer)—equivalent to cyber investigation career-recruited police officers—taking into consideration his high recognition both domestically and internationally as an e-sports player and his positive influence on young people.

During the appointment ceremony held today, an event also took place where Lee presented autographed uniforms to youths who overcame gambling addiction after participating in a healing program.

The Korean National Police Agency has been operating the youth cyber gambling voluntary reporting system from May 18 until August 31.

As of July 16, a total of 806 voluntary reports had been received.

Acting Commissioner General of the Korean National Police Agency Yoo Jae-sung stated, "We hope that Faker's positive influence will give youths in need the courage to step forward and report without hesitation."

Lee Sang-hyeok said, "I will actively participate in promotional ambassador activities, such as widely informing young people about the dangers of cyber gambling and the voluntary reporting system."

(Photo: Yonhap News)