Countdown to Eden: 4 Days Until Gods of Poker Takes Over Jeju
What began as a vision from Gods of Poker founder Lloyd Fontillas is now just a week away from becoming reality. The inaugural chapter of Gods of Poker (GOP) is set to debut at LES A Casino , Jeju Shinhwa World in South Korea, running from December 5 to 14, 2025. Speaking about the project, Fontillas shared,
“Gods of Poker wasn’t the result of a long-term master plan – it was a long-lived dream that naturally unfolded at the right time, with the help of many friends I’ve worked with for so many years. With my experience and the relationships I’ve built in this industry, this became a continuation of what I do best… just with a new brand.
I wanted a name that wasn’t tied to any location – a brand that could truly go global with a theme everyone instantly connects with. That’s why I leaned into mythology. I mean, who wouldn’t want the power of Zeus – able to shoot lightning at every player who puts a bad beat on you?”
Gods Of Poker – Eden Awakens: All You Need To Know
With over KRW 2 Billion (~USD 1.35 Million) in total guarantees across 80 events,
Eden Awakens
marks a debut rooted in the spirit of community. It is the product of long-standing relationships across Taiwan, Japan, Hong Kong, the Philippines, Vietnam, and beyond. Together, they bring a shared vision for a tour that is authentic, welcoming, and designed with the everyday player in mind.
Created for players who want more than a routine grind, Gods of Poker extends an invitation this December to take part in a new initiative, one built with intention, thoughtful design, and a focus on the idea that poker works best when community comes first.
Main Event Stands Apart
Leading the Eden Awakens lineup is the KRW 2 million (~USD 1,400) buy-in GOP Main Event, backed by an ambitious KRW 1 billion (~USD 700,000) guaranteed prize pool.
Built under the tour’s revolutionary Cronus Structure the GOP Main Event challenges traditional tournament formats by closing registration after just two levels! That means no filler levels, no long-hour grinds, and overall, a more meaningful, skill-focused competition. Designed by Fontillas, the structure emphasizes fairness and strength, all while rewarding early decision-makers and creating a more balanced playing field throughout.
Beyond the hefty prizes in store, the champion will also claim the exclusive Gauntlet of Zeus, GOP’s flagship trophy in its five-event premier lineup, and a proud symbol of the strength, discipline, and determination it takes to rise above the field. The remaining Gauntlets will be awarded in the Demigods Challenge, Super High Roller, Titan Stack High Roller, and GOP High Roller, completing the festival’s pantheon of top-tier titles.
GOP Jeju Main Event Schedule
Before the gates of Eden open, the Arena has already been set ablaze. Over the past months, GOP Arena events have swept across Manila, Taipei, Hong Kong, and Hanoi, carrying the tour’s spirit from one community to another. The first wave of GOP Arena champions emerged from these stops, earning a direct pathway to Jeju. Champions are listed below:
- Nguyễn Văn Đông An (RPC)
- Shanbang Shi (Metro)
- Chien Ju Chang (CTP Club)
From the vibrant fields of Metro Card Club Manila to the electric stage of CTP Asia Poker Arena in Taipei, to the royal halls of Royal Poker Club Hanoi, and the community-driven gatherings in Hong Kong and Japan, the Arena series offered a clear preview of what’s to come, and underscored GOP’s commitment to bringing together Asia’s poker communities under one divine banner.
Key Events
Beyond the Main Event, Eden Awakens delivers a full slate of flagship tournaments that carry the series’ mythology-inspired energy, offering nonstop action and keeping the momentum alive from start to finish. Here are some of the key events set to shape the festival:
*All buy-ins are in KR₩; USD shown for reference only.
Rounding out the schedule is a diverse mix of side events, including daily women’s tournaments, a selection of mixed-game trophy events for those who enjoy variety, and a high-roller schedule packed with premium offerings for those seeking deeper, more competitive action.
Les A Casino, Jeju Shinhwa World
Located within the vibrant Jeju Shinhwa World, Les A Casino (formerly Landing Casino) stands as one of South Korea’s premier gaming destinations and a trusted host for major international poker tours. The resort is surrounded by lush landscapes, volcanic scenery, and beautifully maintained gardens, creating a unique backdrop that blends natural beauty with world-class hospitality. Guests have access to five-star hotels, luxury shopping, global dining, and Jeju’s most popular attractions, all within a convenient 40-minute drive from Jeju International Airport (CJU).
This setting makes Jeju Shinhwa World an ideal base for Eden Awakens. Situated in Seogwipo on Jeju’s southwest coast, the integrated resort offers festival participants a stay that is both comfortable and convenient, with everything they need in one location. With Les A Casino positioned right inside the resort, players are only steps away from the action while enjoying immediate access to dining, shopping, leisure facilities, and scenic attractions.
Participants can also take advantage of special discounted rates at GOP’s official partner hotels within the resort:
- Jeju Shinhwa World Marriott Resort – A refined 5-star retreat with elegant interiors and direct access to Les A Casino. Perfect for players looking for premium comfort and convenience. Rates start from KRW 143,000 (~USD 95) per night.
- Shinhwa Hotel – A contemporary stay designed for both relaxation and recreation, located near the resort’s main attractions. Rates start from KRW 154,000 (~USD 105) per night.
- Landing Hotel – A modern and stylish option at the center of the resort, within close reach of restaurants, shops, and the casino. Rates start from KRW 99,000 (~USD 65) per night.
- Somerset Jeju Shinhwa World – Spacious serviced suites ideal for groups or long stays, complete with full kitchens and multiple bedrooms. Rates start from KRW 220,000 (~USD 150) per night.
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