At the WCG 2019 opening ceremony held in Xi’an, China on the 18th, Smilegate Holdings CEO and chairman of the WCG committee, Kwon Hyuk-bin gave the opening speech. The World Cyber Games (WCG) is returning in 6 years as an international competition with 506 players from 34 different countries.

The site of the event was hot with excitement. Even though the time was late, more than 2,000 people gathered for the opening ceremony. “WCG is back! The intensity. The pride of your flag and the amazing energy of the crowd. It’s what you have all been waiting for, and I want to start by thanking you for your support,” said Kwon, starting his opening speech.

Kwon continued with thank you’s. “We definitely feel your passion. WCG 2019 would not be possible without you. I also need to say several very big thank you’s. First to our host: Xian City and Qujiang New District. Our presenting partner, Samsung Electronics, All our developers and publishers, including Blizzard, Smilegate, Supercell, Valve, and Tencent. And of course, our broadcasting partners and media, such as Penguin esports.”

“The WCG is an opportunity to make your place in the future of sports. A chance to be a star. So don’t miss it! Pro or amateur, young or old… Everyone is welcome and anyone can be a hero. We have already seen an incredible 40,000 players from an amazing one hundred eleven countries taking part in the prelims around the world. And this week here in Xian, we have 506 players from 34 different countries, all  to vie for the championship.”

He concluded his speech by saying, “When we play as one like this, we bridge gaps, and build understanding and tolerance. That’s how we’re creating a better world for all. And let’s not forget friendship. More than the competition, more than the glory and the prizes, friendship is everything. It’s the heart of the WCG. Because no matter what we do, no matter the game we’re playing, we come together as friends. So, here in Xian City and Qujiang New District, let’s use this spirit of friendship, and build a better world with esports. Esports is the future! Let’s make it together.”