Seoul Ready to Host Biggest-Ever PUBG Nations Cup This Summer

by Hannah / Jun 18, 2025 03:02 PM EDT

Game developer KRAFTON announced Tuesday that Seoul will welcome 24 countries for the 2025 PUBG Nations Cup, making it the largest international PUBG esports tournament to date.

The five-day competition runs July 23-27 at Olympic Park's Handball Gymnasium, expanding from last year's 16-team, three-day format. The tournament starts with a $500,000 prize pool, which will grow through community crowdfunding via the returning Pick'em Challenge.

The competition splits into two stages: a Survival Stage (July 23-24) where 16 teams compete for eight spots, followed by a Final Stage (July 25-27) where those survivors join eight pre-qualified teams from 2024's top performers.

Eight nations earned direct entry to the finals based on last year's results: South Korea (defending champions), Argentina, Australia, Brazil, China, Thailand, United States, and Vietnam.

The remaining 16 countries start in the Survival Stage: Canada, Chinese Taipei, Denmark, France, Germany, India, Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, Norway, Philippines, Poland, Spain, Sweden, Turkey, and United Kingdom.

Six countries debut this year: France, Poland, Spain, Philippines, Sweden, and Malaysia. Denmark and India return after sitting out 2024.

Free admission applies to the first two days (Survival Stage), while the Final Stage requires tickets costing 40,000-50,000 won ($30-37). Ticket holders receive in-game rewards worth 2,500 G-Coins plus daily tournament items.

Last year's tournament in Seoul drew 510,997 peak viewers and a total prize pool of $548,932, making it the third most-watched PUBG esports event ever. South Korea beat the United States in the 2024 final.

The expanded format reflects PUBG's growing international competitive scene, with top players selected through regional tournaments and peer voting systems that vary by country.

KRAFTON will announce team rosters June 6, with each nation fielding four players and one coach. The tournament also features fan events including player meet-and-greets and special performances.