One of League of Legend‘s greatest ADC players, if not the greatest ever, has been caught in some controversy. According to reports circulating in Korean media, Park “Ruler” Jae-hyuk’s tax evasion case has resurfaced, and the appeal has been denied. Consequently, Ruler has been fined for tax evasion, and the payments have now been settled.
While it shines a spotlight on Ruler, there are some pretty heavy implications for what is to come for him. We decided to translate the LCK rulebook for 2026, and based on some information, there are a few key points to make.
What rulings could affect Ruler in tax evasion case
Based on the current LCK rulebook, there are a few punishments that could be imposed on Ruler. Here are some possibilities:
- Section 9.2.7 – Full cooperation with League Office investigations; concealing information or providing false information may result in additional penalties
- Section 9.2.8 – No criminal acts under South Korean law; investigations for crimes, including tax evasion may trigger penalties
- Section 9.2.9 – No immoral or disreputable conduct
In addition, the Appendix says that Riot can investigate based on up to 72 months prior to when issues occurred and can have repeat offenses.
Considering that Ruler has so far experienced several hearings from Riot, Ruler could be in a tricky spot. Ruler was fined earlier in January for toxic in-game chat, in accordance with the LCK rulebook. Considering this is his second offense this year, it could very well add up.
The other issue is that Woori Bank is also a sponsor of the LCK, and renewed its contract the same day Ruler was initially fined for toxicity. A bank sponsoring the LCK could very well not be happy about a tax evader in the league it sponsors. So maybe that adds additional pressure to the league.
We’ll need to see what happens given the reputation issues. Gen.G is scheduled to play on Friday, April 4th, for their first game of the new split since returning from First Stand. Riot Games’ competitive rulings or contract database has not been updated yet with any information. We have reached out to Riot Games about a potential ruling regarding the situation.