Delve into the history and enduring legacy of 'StarCraft,' the real-time strategy game that became a national pastime in South Korea and laid the foundation for the country's unparalleled esports industry.
When StarCraft was released internationally on March 31, 1998, its impact in South Korea quickly surpassed expectations. By April 1999, nearly 300,000 copies had been sold, a number that grew to over 1 million units in Korea by November of the same year, contributing significantly to its worldwide sales. This surge coincided with the rapid expansion of PC bangs, internet cafes that increased from 3,000 in 1998 to over 20,000 within two years, becoming central hubs for the game’s burgeoning community.
The game's widespread adoption laid the groundwork for South Korea's pioneering esports industry. The Korea Pro Gaming League (KPGL) was established in December 1998, and by 1999, cable television channels began broadcasting professional matches. This led to "pro-gaming" being recognized as an official job category in Korea by 2000. Large South Korean companies like Samsung, SK Telecom, and KT started sponsoring professional teams by 2003, with live StarCraft events attracting audiences of over 100,000 people, establishing a model for professional gaming that influenced the global esports landscape.
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Correct Answer: Brood War
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