Every year at the World Esports Championship (WEC), hundreds of athletes take the stage, competing across multiple game titles, giving everything for their teams, and proudly representing their nations.
But among the many, there is always one that rises to the very top.
Becoming the WEC Overall Champion means more than just winning. It means a nation has excelled across the board, in skill, strategy, teamwork, and national unity. It is the highest collective honor in IESF’s flagship event.
Let’s take a moment to honor those who have earned that title, the WEC Hall of Champions.
Korea – The Legacy Builders
It’s impossible to talk about WEC history without starting with Korea. From the very first championship in 2009, Korea set the standard for what excellence looks like on the international stage. They’ve won the Overall Champion title eight times, participated in 15 of 16 WECs, and earned medals in almost every title that’s ever been part of the event. With 19 golds and 24 total medals, their legacy isn’t just dominant, it’s foundational. Korea didn’t just participate, they built the blueprint.
Sweden – The FPS Powerhouse
Sweden made their mark in 2011 with a gold in StarCraft II, but their true strength came through in FPS titles. Over the years, their CS teams have become fan favorites, known for precision, smart plays, and a never-back-down attitude. Sweden claimed the Overall Champion title again in 2021, proving their long-term consistency. With 10 medals in total, they’ve become a symbol of northern strength in the World of Esports.
Serbia – The Game Changer
In 2015, Serbia did what few thought was possible — they dethroned Korea and claimed the Overall Champion title. It was a statement win, not just for them, but for European esports as a whole. Since joining IESF in 2011, Serbia has quietly and steadily climbed the ranks. Today, with 7 medals and consistent Top 15 finishes, Serbia is a name that carries weight in every bracket.
Japan – The Console Kings
Japan made their debut in 2016 and didn’t take long to make an impact. In 2019, they earned the Overall Champion title, a win that highlighted their dominance in console games. While they’ve yet to win a gold, their five silver medals speak to their consistency and quality. Japan brings precision, discipline, and a unique style to the WEC, and they’ve become a nation to watch every year.
Indonesia – The New Era
Indonesia’s journey is one of the most exciting in WEC history. They didn’t win a single medal until 2022, and just two years later, they were crowned champions twice: in 2022 and again in 2024. Their 2024 win was incredibly close, edging out Turkiye by just 0.7 points. Indonesia’s strength lies in MOBA titles, especially MLBB, where they’ve built powerhouse teams. Their rise has been fast, but it’s clear they’re here to stay.
Philippines – The Crowd Favourites
The Philippines joined IESF back in 2012, and over the years, they’ve built a passionate, talented esports scene, especially in MLBB, where they’ve consistently performed at the highest level. In 2023, their hard work paid off when they claimed the Overall Champion title for the first time. It was a proud moment for the country and a signal to the world that the Philippines is now a major player on the global stage.
From Korea’s golden streak to the rise of Southeast Asian powerhouses, the WEC Hall of Champions tells the story of how the World of Esports has grown, diversified, and evolved. It’s not just about who wins, it’s about what each champion represents.
Each of these nations has helped shape the legacy of the World Esports Championship. They’ve inspired countless athletes and reminded us all why we play, why we compete, and why we come together.
The future of WEC is wide open.
