Disney Plus is expanding its presence in competitive gaming after announcing a broader partnership with the Korea eSports Association. The move builds on the strong reception of the 2025 LoL KeSPA CUP livestream, signaling a deeper push into global esports coverage.
The enhanced agreement will bring a wider range of major tournaments and national team events to international audiences. It also strengthens Disney Plus’ role in delivering high-level esports competitions tied to the 20th Asian Games Aichi-Nagoya 2026.
Among the headline events included in the partnership are the Esports Championships Asia Jinju 2026 and the 2026 LoL KeSPA CUP. The platform will also stream the Korea national team send-off ceremony and a series of preparatory friendly matches ahead of the Asian Games.
The collaboration officially begins from April 24 to 26 with the Esports Championships Asia Jinju 2026 in South Korea. The three-day tournament will feature national teams competing across multiple game titles in a high-stakes regional showdown.
Participating countries include South Korea, China, Japan, Vietnam, Thailand, the Philippines, and Mongolia. Each team will compete not only for victory but also to evaluate performance ahead of a major international stage.
Fans will be able to watch live competitions in Street Fighter 6, The King of Fighters XV, TEKKEN 8, and the eFootball series. Additional coverage will include PUBG Mobile and Eternal Return, providing a diverse viewing experience across genres.
ESPN, Disney’s sports brand, will be integrated into the broadcast presentation throughout the livestream. This inclusion is expected to elevate production quality and deliver a more traditional sports viewing experience to esports audiences.
A major platform ahead of the Asian Games
The Esports Championships Asia Jinju 2026 plays a crucial role in preparing national teams for the 20th Asian Games. It provides a competitive environment where teams can test strategies, assess rosters, and refine their overall approach.
Performances during the event could influence final selections and preparations for the Games. The tournament therefore serves as both a competition and a key evaluation stage for participating nations.
Disney Plus will also exclusively stream the national team send-off ceremony later this year. Additional evaluation matches will be broadcast as teams finalize preparations for the Asian Games.
Expanding global access to esports content
The expanded partnership reflects Disney Plus’ growing commitment to esports as a global entertainment category. By securing these events, the platform is making high-level competition more accessible to viewers worldwide.
Fans can also revisit previous tournaments, including the 2025 LoL KeSPA CUP featuring LCK teams and international squads. This library of content helps maintain engagement beyond live events.
With more competitions scheduled throughout the year, Disney Plus is positioning itself as a consistent destination for esports coverage. The deal underscores a long-term strategy to capture a broader global gaming audience.
