Bangkok, Thailand, July 2, 2025: The Asian Electronic Sports Federation (AESF) hosted its 5th Executive Board meeting on June 30, 2025 in Bangkok, chaired by AESF President Mr. Santi Lothong.
This was the first official gathering of the newly elected Executive Board members following their election on April 6, 2025.
In his opening remarks, Mr. Lothong paid tribute to former AESF President Mr. Kenneth Fok, acknowledging his role and contributions in establishing a strong foundation for esports in Asia.
The Executive Board approved the appointment of Mr. Fok as AESF Honorary President, in recognition of his outstanding service and leadership over the past eight years.
President Lothong noted that the meeting was of strategic importance as the Board began discussions on shaping the AESF Vision, Mission and Strategic Roadmap for 2025–2029, with the goal of elevating esports in Asia to even greater heights.
Mr. Lothong underscored the need for AESF to strengthen its relationships with key stakeholders, including government agencies, the Olympic Council of Asia, National Olympic Committees, National Federations, game publishers and other partners vital to the regional esports ecosystem.
During the meeting, Mr. Lothong also proposed hosting the 2nd AESF General Assembly later this year, along with the inaugural AESF Asian Esports Forum, aimed at further engaging the broader esports community and institutional partners.
Other key agenda items included the presentation of the Activity Report and AESF’s ongoing preparations for its involvement in the upcoming Asian Youth Games 2025 in Bahrain, SEA Games 2025 in Thailand and Asian Games 2026 in Japan.
NEW DIRECTOR GENERAL
In addition, Mr. Lothong formally appointed Mr. Steve Tae Hyung Kim as the new AESF Director General, and the Executive Board members unanimously supported the appointment.
A respected leader in international sports administration, Mr. Kim brings extensive experience from organizations such as the Asian Football Confederation, 2002 FIFA World Cup™, Los Angeles Galaxy, Malaysian Football League and Football Marketing Asia.
He previously served as AESF’s Chief Operating Officer and played an important role in key initiatives, including the inclusion of esports in the Asian Games.
