Behind-the-Scenes of LCK Matches Without Fans
The recent surge of coronavirus cases in South Korea has resulted in the LCK making the decision to continue the 2020 Spring Split without a live audience. In fact, all press activities have been suspended for the remainder of the season. Before this change took effect, Ashley Kang from Korizon provided fans with a glimpse of what game days look like without cheering fans at LoL Park.
Upon entering the arena, Kang noticed an unusual silence, with only a few people conversing amongst themselves. She also had to undergo a health checkpoint, which included temperature checks, distribution of masks, and mandatory hand disinfection.
On stage, the absence of a live crowd created an eerie atmosphere as the players and coaches conversed amongst themselves, accompanied only by the sounds of keyboards clacking and the ventilation system. The overall ambiance resembled that of a PC bang or internet cafe, where minimal talking occurs except for communication between teammates.
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For many players, having a live audience is a crucial aspect of professional League matches. The fans’ cheers, meet and greets, and the excitement they bring cannot be replicated, and inevitably, this absence adds pressure to a high-stress game. Without these elements, a player’s performance can be affected in both positive and negative ways.
The coronavirus has impacted multiple leagues and has caused setbacks in the international League schedule. Riot Games has postponed the announcement of any plans for the 2020 Mid-Season Invitational. John Needham, Riot’s global head of esports, stated that the company will provide fans with relevant updates as soon as possible.