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John Popko

Writer
John Popko is a journalist with more than ten years of experience reporting on the APAC region, with a focus on games, technology, and esports. He currently works as a writer and editor at INVEN, South Korea’s largest gaming publication, and has contributed as a freelancer to Rest of World, The Diplomat, The Escapist, and The Korea Times. Previously, he served as a staff writer at Esports Heaven. He is also the author of The Makers of Faker, an upcoming biography that chronicles the career of iconic Korean esports legend Lee “Faker” Sang-hyeok.
John Popko
ARTICLES WRITTEN
ARTICLES WRITTEN 110
FAVOURITE GAMES
FAVOURITE GAMES League of Legends, Disco Elysium, and Bioshock Infinite
CURRENTLY PLAYING
CURRENTLY PLAYING Balatro

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EXPERTISE

John specialize in reporting on games, esports, and technology across the APAC region, with a particular focus on South Korea. My work combines industry analysis, cultural context, and on-the-ground reporting to examine how gaming and esports shape media, business, and society. He has extensive experience covering professional esports ecosystems, game development, and the global impact of gaming culture across multiple Asian countries.

John Popko's Recommendation

"Watch the documentary State of Play—it’s a sharp look at the people and pressures behind competitive gaming. It’s a worthwhile watch for understanding how esports operates beyond the matches."

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EXPERIENCE

  • Esports Insider
    Esports Insider Writer 2025 - Present
  • Grossmont College
    Grossmont College AS, Business Administration and Management, General 2022 - 2024
  • Inven Global
    Inven Global Senior Editor 2021 - Present

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