Faker and T1 join SOOP streaming platform launching global beta on June 5th

League of Legends — T1 Faker. Image source: Riot Games

SOOP, a new streaming platform backed by AfreecaTV creators, launches its global beta on June 5th, featuring League of Legends star Lee “Faker” Sang-hyeok and the entire T1 roster. The platform aims to attract international esports fans with exclusive content and partnerships in South Korea and beyond.

SOOP, a new streaming platform developed by the creators behind Korea’s AfreecaTV, is launching its global beta on June 5th, with League of Legends star Lee “Faker” Sang-hyeok and the entire T1 roster as featured broadcasters. The platform aims to attract gaming and esports fans worldwide by offering exclusive content from leading esports figures.

In addition to Faker and T1, SOOP has secured esports talent from the DRX organization, including Tekken legend Knee and VALORANT player BuZz. These players will produce exclusive streams and original content on SOOP for international audiences, while maintaining their presence on AfreecaTV for South Korean viewers.

SOOP is targeting rapid regional growth with partnerships designed to strengthen its esports broadcasting portfolio. The platform collaborated with Riot Games to manage the broadcast and production of VALORANT Challengers Thailand and acquired Thai distribution rights for the VALORANT Champions Tour. At launch, SOOP will support English, Thai, and Chinese interfaces available on web and mobile applications.

To appeal to content creators, SOOP allows hosting multiple channels under one account and includes integrated 3D virtual avatar tools aimed at VTubers without requiring expensive motion-capture equipment. Before the end of June, SOOP also plans to introduce an AI-driven, real-time live translation feature, which could enable better communication between Western audiences and East Asian esports professionals during live streams.