League of Legends: A mysterious top laner tops the Korean server rankings; all ten top players are Korean; LPL goes on strike during the off-season. (Part 2)

The efforts of the LCK region are evident to viewers and fans. They've revitalized the scene, increased the entertainment value of the matches, and the veteran players who have stood the test of time have proven their skill. Even rookies are gaining public attention. According to insiders, the LCK region doesn't easily let go of its youth academy players. Those who perform exceptionally well are promoted to top-tier teams. Rewards and punishments are clear; underperforming players who simply collect their salaries without contributing are not spared resources and are instead demoted for rigorous training.

Thanks to this young player from 2004 who reached the Korean server championship, LPL players didn't hold back in their criticism, saying that none of the region's youth training teams were up to par, and the players were just going through the motions like clocking in for work. Even without these harsh comments, the audience has seen the true strength of the LPL region.

LPL youth training can't create miracles.

Take the transfer period as an example. The other leagues haven't implemented any reforms to their rules. Following the traditional mutual selection system, rare players are poached by every club, with clubs vying to acquire them, negotiating salaries, and attempting to dismantle existing rosters. The LPL region, however, is using an auction system, which has led to salary cuts for veteran players, sparking protests. During the off-season, more than ten popular top players announced a strike, refusing to participate in the first stage of next year's season, silently boycotting the competition. This has put the LPL in a difficult position, caught in a dilemma. Fans are unhappy, accusing them of taking advantage of their seniority and demanding exorbitant prices despite lacking results.

The LCK environment is positive and energetic, promoting new talent and attracting new players. In contrast, the LPL sees a constant flow of players, with only a few making their debut. Regardless of the competition, a player might win one time and lose the next, only to be relegated to the same group again – the rankings are constantly changing. How can they select players who genuinely represent their region and challenge LCK players, only to fail and return home? How can the LPL truly transform itself? Perhaps they should start by lowering salaries, hoping to punish LCK players and give newcomers a chance to make their debut.

The problem is that the LPL's youth training environment isn't very good either. To put it bluntly, even if they buy Korean players from the LCK to increase their strength, they might not be able to beat them. The LCK keeps climbing to the top in the world, while the LPL can't surpass the LCK region and occupy a place.