Jeju Ignites Once More with Korea Poker Cup Back in the Spotlight This June

After a strong debut just two months ago, Korea Poker Cup (KPC), proudly sponsored by QQPK, is set to return for another exciting edition this summer. From June 17 to 23, the iconic black-and-white branding will once again take over the elegant halls of Jeju Landing Casino at Jeju Shinhwa World Resort, hosting a week-long poker festival that promises both action and atmosphere. The second running features KR₩ 1.36 billion (~USD 985,200) in festival guarantees spread across 25 trophy events, with the spotlight firmly on its KR₩ 880 million (~USD 630,600) guaranteed Main Event, the crown jewel of the series.

While the Main Event figure alone may not turn every head, the numbers from KPC’s inaugural run certainly will. During its standalone launch in April, the festival paid out more than KR₩ 8 billion (~USD 5.68 million) in total prizes, attracting top-tier players including Joseph Cheong, Wiktor Malinowski, Renji Mao, Danny Tang, and Shiina Okamoto. This June, another star-studded cast is already shaping up, with confirmed attendees including Tan Xuan, China’s fourth-ranked player on the all-time money list, LeoPoker, 2025 Macau MPT Main Event runner-up, and Stephen Lai, Director of the Hong Kong Poker Players Association (HKPPA), all ready to take on the scene.

Korea Poker Cup Series 2025 – Player’s Guide

KPC Main Event

Kicking off the grand festivities, this season’s headliner, the KR₩ 880,000,000 (~USD 637,480) guaranteed Main Event, wastes no time and gets underway right on the second day of the series. The buy-in remains unchanged at KR₩ 1,300,000 (~USD 940), with 15% of the field set to cash. Players will have six Day 1 flights to choose from, each sending only the top 12.5% of the field through to Day 2. Offering plenty of play, most starting flights will run with 40-minute blind levels, while two turbo flights provide a faster-paced alternative for those who prefer an accelerated structure.

From Day 2 onward, blind levels increase to 60 minutes, creating a deep-stack environment as the pressure and the stakes intensify. Adding extra incentive, KPC is rolling out a multi-qualifier bonus promotion: players who advance to Day 2 through multiple flights will receive bonus payouts of up to KR₩ 23 million (~USD 16,660). Specifically, qualifying twice earns KR₩ 4 million (~USD 2,900), three times nets KR₩ 11.5 million (~USD 8,330), and those who make it through four flights will collect the full lot.

Bonus for Advancing Multiple Day 1 Flights:

• Advance in 2 flights: KR₩ 4,000,000 
• Advance in 3 flights: KR₩ 11,500,000 
• Advance in 4 flights: KR₩ 23,000,000

Last season saw Chun Lung Wong brave the storm and rise above a field of 1,228 entries to claim his first Main Event title and take home an astounding loot of KR₩ 200,740,000 (~USD 141,250). This second run is bound to be bigger with a slightly larger guarantee set in stone and an additional flight to round up the numbers.

KPC Main Event Schedule

• Dates: June 18-23, 2025
• Buy-in: KR₩ 1,300,000 (~USD 940)
• Guarantee: KR₩ 880,000,000 (~USD 637,480)
• Day 1A – Early Bird: Wednesday, June 18
• Day 1B: Thursday, June 19
• Day 1C [Turbo]: Thursday, June 19
• Day 1D: Friday, June 20
• Day 1E: Saturday, June 21
• Day 1F [Turbo]: Saturday, June 21
• Day 2: Sunday, June 22
• Final Day: Monday, June 23

Side Event Highlights

Complementing the prestigious Main Event is a diverse lineup of side events designed to keep the energy high and the action non-stop from day one. Throughout the week, players can dive into a mix of multiday tournaments and high-stakes showdowns, with something on offer for players of every level. 

For trophy hunters, there’s added motivation as this season Korea Poker Cup introduces a striking new trophy design, each featuring a bold “K” centerpiece intricately blended with the iconic KPC logo, making every win a statement both on and off the felt.

Festival Promotions

Although early bird tickets have already sold out, KPC has introduced an exclusive package deal released earlier this week, priced at KR₩ 5 million (~USD 3,620). The package includes a Main Event Day 1A entry, a seat to Event #26: Mega Stack Closer, and a KR₩ 2.66 million pre-deposit toward additional tournament entries. To sweeten the offer, players will also receive three complimentary nights at the Marriott Hotel, with the first 20 registrants entitled to an extra KR₩ 50,000 discount voucher.

Discounted Room Rate

In another exclusive offer for KPC participants, pre-booked room rates at the Marriott Hotel have been discounted by 40%, reducing the nightly rate from KR₩ 247,000 (~USD 180) to just KR₩ 143,000 (~USD 104). It’s an excellent value for players seeking comfort and convenience during the event. Be sure to secure your accommodation early to take full advantage of this limited-time promotion and make the most of your tournament experience, both at the tables and throughout your stay.

Korea Poker Cup Series 2025 Full Schedule

Accommodation

With the venue situated inside the Jeju Shinhwa World Resort, the best place to stay would be on property which houses a number of choices based on one’s preference. Tournament runners are greeted with three five-star hotel options onsite – Landing, Shinhwa Hotel, and Marriott Resort, each offering its own charm accompanied by luxurious amenities all within a short walking distance to Landing Casino.

Off the Felt Activities

• Hallasan National Park

One of the must-see spots in Jeju Island, the breathtaking beauty of Hallasan National Park is where you can witness the cherry blossoms bloom in full glory just in time for the April season. The park, home to Jeju’s highest peak – Hallasan, offers scenic trails and mesmerizing landscapes, making it a perfect spot for nature lovers and hiking enthusiasts.

Address: South Korea, Jeju-do, Jeju-si, 특별자치도, 1100로 2070-61
Phone: +82 64-747-9950

• Osulloc Tea Museum

A visit to the Osulloc Tea Museum would also be a great way to immerse in the rich culture of Korean tea and experience firsthand its premium quality straight from the source. Nestled near Jeju’s renowned green tea fields, this museum showcases the history and artistry of tea production in Korea. Explore the exhibits, enjoy delicious tea tastings, and discover unique tea-inspired products in a tranquil and exquisite setting.

Address: 15 Sinhwayeoksa-ro, Andeok-myeon, 특별자치도, Seogwipo-si, Jeju-do, South Korea
Phone: +82 64-794-5312

• Seongsan Ilchulbong Peak

Also known as Sunrise Peak, Seongsan Ilchulbong is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Jeju’s most iconic landmarks. Formed by a volcanic eruption over 5,000 years ago, the peak offers stunning panoramic views, making it one of the most sought out locations across the island. Hiking to the summit provides an unforgettable experience, especially at dawn, when the sunrise paints the sky in vibrant hues over the expansive coastline.

Address: 78 Seongsan-ri, Seongsan-eup, Seogwipo-si, Jeju-do, South Korea
Phone: +82 64-783-0959

About Jeju Island

The largest island in Korea, Jeju is a popular tourist destination with its stunning volcanic landscape, white sand beaches, and other scenic views making it a worthwhile visit for many. Eager travelers looking to see the sights will be glad to know that the province is home to a couple UNESCO World Heritage sites which can all be accessed within just a few days. 

Renowned for its natural beauty, three destinations take it over the top – Hallasan Mountain Natural Reserve, Geomunoreum Lava Tube System, and Seongsan Ilchulbong Tuff Cone, which are all a definite must see for locals and visitors alike. These three areas are home to diverse volcanic and naturally magnificent characteristics that make the island unique and of interest to many seasoned travelers.