Esports Connects China with Global Audience at Record-Setting KPL Finals

The King Pro League (KPL) Grand Finals 2025, held on November 8, 2025, marked a historic moment for esports in China. With a remarkable attendance of 62,196 spectators, the event not only captivated fans but also set a new Guinness World Record for the largest audience at an esports event. Tickets for the finals sold out in an astonishing 15 seconds during the first round and just 12 seconds in the second, underscoring the surging global interest in China’s competitive gaming landscape.

This record-setting event is part of a broader evolution within China’s esports ecosystem, which has transformed from a niche pastime to a significant driver of urban consumption and youth culture. A recent industry forum, the 2025 Esports Innovation and Communication Seminar, held on October 17 in Mudanjiang and organized by the China Media Group (CMG), brought together key figures to discuss these developments.

Su Zhili, the Head of Esports for Riot Games China, highlighted that Chinese esports is ahead of other regions by three to five years regarding audience engagement and commercial growth. He cited the upcoming Worlds 2025 in Chengdu as an example of how innovations in event presentation and staging can bridge the gap between esports and traditional sports, appealing to a younger demographic.

Technological advancements continue to enhance the esports experience. The launch of the Harmony version of Honor of Kings this year supports 120 FPS high refresh rates and cross-platform matchmaking, which eliminates eight years of platform separation. This development fosters greater player participation and strengthens the overall ecosystem. Huang Cheng, Head of the KPL, stated, “Content innovation and technology investments have helped us grow user participation and strengthen our market presence.”

Maintaining its dominance, Honor of Kings was the highest-grossing mobile game globally in May. International guests at the seminar praised China’s capability to execute large-scale esports events effectively. German esports commentator Danny Engels, who attended the KPL Grand Finals 2025, noted, “The production quality was world-class, with distinctive stage design and professional execution at every level.”

Moreover, Chinese esports organizations are expanding their reach by sharing operational expertise internationally. Nikhil, the CEO of PRX, pointed out that the growth of esports in Southeast Asia faces challenges such as language diversity and internet infrastructure. Chinese companies have leveraged their experience in multilingual support and server optimization to aid the expansion of games like Valorant in the region.

Esports in China has evolved into more than mere competition; it serves as a platform for showcasing the country’s modern identity and industry aspirations. As the sector continues to thrive, it is expected to draw even more global interest, connecting China with audiences worldwide and reinforcing its position as a leader in the esports arena.