The coronavirus is currently a big issue around the world. Due to the breakout of coronavirus, the LPL has been delayed until further notice. Korea isn’t an exception from the virus; a total of four people have been confirmed of definite diagnosis up to now (28th, KST).
Riot Games Korea will not be holding a media-specific day as usual for the LCK Spring 2020 – according to a statement released yesterday afternoon (January 29). According to an Inven Global report, the decision was made on suspicion of the deadly Coronavirus.
Korea’s first League of Legends tournament kicks off on February 5 according to the original schedule but the organizers will limit the number of live viewers at LOL Park, Seoul to limit coronavirus outbreak.
Riot Korea was well aware of the seriousness as well. An official said: “We’re carefully monitoring the current situation and are considering measures so that the tournament can be held safely. In case of any changes, we will notify immediately.”
Just a day earlier (January 28), Riot Games Korea said it was discussing the possibility of postponing the opening date of the Spring 2020 LCK if coronavirus gets worse. However, tournament management has updated the situation and changed the decision.
A similar situation happened in the Korean esports scene in the past. In 2015, the StarCraft II StarLeague Grand Final was forced to move to another location in Seoul, Nexon Arena, to prevent the risk of MERS infection, another dangerous virus strain that killed 36 South Koreans.
Coronavirus was discovered outbreak in Wuhan, China in December last year. More than 5,900 cases have been reported infected with Coronavirus in the world’s most populous country. The government has taken drastic action to eliminate a virus that has killed more than 130 people.
After the first week of competition, the LPL Spring 2020 has been suspended indefinitely due to the coronavirus raging.
But coronaviruses are less serious in other countries. Although four virus infections have been identified in South Korea since January 20, the government says it will “do everything” to prevent it.
In addition, South Korea has issued an infectious disease warning to the “orange” level – the highest level – and is tracking 28 suspected coronavirus infections. They are also conducting health checks on more than 3,000 visitors from Wuhan, an epidemic that is causing global concern.
The LCK Spring 2020 will still start from February 5 and there will be no spectators at the venue.