2025 Young Trilateral Leaders (YTL) Esports Competition
2025 YTL Esports Competition is an innovative program that fosters diplomacy, leadership, and conflict resolution through gaming.
This innovative initiative will strengthen the U.S.-ROK-Japan trilateral partnership, empower young leaders, and showcase the transformative power of esports.
This program is sponsored by the U.S. Department of State and leading e-commerce company Coupang.
Who should apply?
English language fluency
The program activities are conducted in English; therefore, applicants must be comfortable conversing in English.
Citizenship
Applicants must be citizens of the United States, Republic of Korea, or Japan and residing in America, the ROK, or Japan throughout the entire program.
Leadership
Applicants must demonstrate a history of leadership, such as at school, work, or through online or offline clubs.
Teamwork & Collaboration
Applicants should excel at building teams and collaborating across cultural and national boundaries with openness and respect.
20-39 years old
U.S., ROK, and Japanese citizens aged 20 to 39.
Passion for esports
Applicants should demonstrate a strong passion for esports and competitive gaming – along with experience as a player or organizer in gaming communities.
Creative mindset
A digital native with a creative mindset, comfortable using social media to document and share their journey with a global audience.
Program Schedule
Tentative schedule
Phase 1: Recruitment (March)
Phase 2: Training & Weekly Activities (April 5th – May 31st)
Phase 3: Esports Tournaments in Incheon, Korea (mid-June, Week of June 16th)
Phase 4: U.S. Visit (July or August)
Phase 5: Post-program Event & Alumni Networking (June and onward)
Program commitment
If selected, participants agree to do the following:
- Document weekly training progress through social media sites, such as Instagram.
- Participate in weekly check-in meetings (online) and activities.
- If advanced to the eSports tournament, must be available to travel to Incheon, Korea in the week of June 16th.
- If selected for the U.S. Visit, must be available to travel to the U.S. in July or August (the dates will be set based on the availability of the selected participants).
Program structure
🔹 Phase 1: Training & Selection (April 5th – May 31st)
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- 50+ participants from Japan & Korea join weekly game training.
- Progress is evaluated based on skills, teamwork, and engagement.
- Top 30 are selected for the esports Tournament in Korea.
🔹 Phase 2: Esports Tournament (Week of June 16th, Incheon, Korea)
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- 30 finalists compete in Japan vs. Korea & mixed team matches.
- Players showcase strategy, leadership, and teamwork.
- Post-event presentations help determine the top performers.
🔹 Phase 3: U.S. Visit (July or August)
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- Top 4 participants are invited to the U.S. for a week-long gaming & leadership experience.
- Visit top gaming companies, esports hubs & tech innovators.
🏆 Train. Compete. Connect. Ready to be a part of this journey? Apply now!
Overwatch 2, game for the program
Activision’s Overwatch 2 was chosen for its unique ability to foster teamwork and resonate with American, Korean, and Japanese gamers.
FAQ
Helpful information for prospective applicants
If you plan to apply for the program, read this before you start working on your application.
Should I already be an Overwatch 2 pro before applying?
Familiarity is a big plus, but not mandatory.
Is English fluency mandatory?
Yes. The program will be conducted in English, making English proficiency a must. We do not require test scores and will assess English skills via the application process.
What is the time commitment?
If selected, you will attend weekly lecture sessions and train alongside your team. There will also be regular weekly check in meetings with the program trainers. You will also need to document your progress using social media sites. If you are selected for the competition, you must be available to participate in the esports tournament in Incheon, South Korea, in June.
Can I use AI for my application?
We will not consider any applications written with generative AI.
More opportunities in the future
Networking Opportunities:
Successful participants who complete the program will join the YTL alumni network, providing access to an exclusive global network, funding opportunities, and follow-on events.
Ready to play for the better future?
Train. Compete. Connect. Ready to be a part of this journey? Apply now!