Excitement Builds for WPT Korea: A Prelude to the Jeju Poker Festival
The World Poker Tour (WPT) continues to make waves in the poker world with its latest announcement surrounding the upcoming WPT Korea. Following a successful stop at Playground in Montreal, eyes are now turned towards Jeju Island, South Korea, where the Jeju Poker Festival will take stage at Landing Casino at Jeju Shinhwa World from November 15 to December 1, 2023.
The Main Event: WPT Korea Championship
At the heart of the Jeju Poker Festival is the highly anticipated WPT Korea Championship Event. Scheduled from November 16 to November 22, this prestigious tournament features a buy-in of 2,500,000 KRW (approximately US $1,860) and an impressive prize pool guarantee of 1.68 billion KRW (around US $1.25 million). The format of the championship entails three starting flights, catering to a broad spectrum of poker enthusiasts eager to stake their claim in the competitive environment.
Adam Pliska, the CEO of WPT, expressed his enthusiasm for the event, stating, "Jeju Island is a sensational location and has become a popular stop on the WPT schedule. Thanks to our partners at Landing Casino and Red Dragon who have spearheaded the planning to bring WPT Korea back for a second time this season."
A Look Back: Previous WPT Korea Tournaments
This will mark the third WPT Korea event in as many years, cementing its status as a staple in the poker tour’s calendar. Earlier this year, Mate Hanusi triumphed in a fierce competition, taking home a prize of US $322,174 after overcoming a staggering field of 1,065 entries in late March. This show of talent underscored the growing popularity and competitiveness of the event.
Mate Hanusi won the WPT Korea earlier this year.
In July 2023, Yin Tao navigated a challenging field of 757 entries to emerge victorious, pocketing US $232,667. This same tournament saw star player Steve O’Dwyer capture the WPT Alpha 8 One Drop Korea title with a tremendous payday of over US $1 million. The fast-paced action at these events not only showcases the skill of the players but also highlights the growing interest in poker within South Korea.
The Future of Poker in Korea
Jenny Lim, Chief Operating Officer of Landing Casino, emphasized the bright future of poker in Korea, stating, "Landing Casino at Jeju Shinhwa World is again honored and excited to partner with WPT in hosting the WPT Korea Championship this coming November. Poker tours in Korea are on a steady increase, and the events held at Jeju Shinhwa World with outstanding partners such as WPT add to the excitement and growth of poker in the region."
The Jeju Poker Festival is not limited to just the WPT Korea Championship; it will also feature the Korea Poker Cup and the Red Dragon Poker Tour, further enhancing the allure of the festival. Any player who makes it to the final table of two or more championship events will be rewarded with an extra prize, details of which will be unveiled on social media leading up to the festival.
Conclusion: A Can’t-Miss Event for Poker Enthusiasts
The upcoming WPT Korea event promises excitement, competition, and the chance to witness some of the best poker players from around the globe. As players prepare to flock to Jeju Island for a thrilling poker experience, it is evident that the WPT Korea is not only enhancing the poker landscape in the region but also solidifying Jeju Island’s place as a top destination for poker enthusiasts everywhere.
Photo courtesy World Poker Tour (WPT)
Author: Chad Holloway
PR & Media Manager, Podcast Host & 2013 WSOP Bracelet Winner.
