World Poker Tour Wraps up in Montreal, Heading to South Korea

The 2024 World Poker Tour (WPT) Montreal was held at the renowned Playground Poker Club, which has become an iconic venue for poker in Canada. Established in 2010, Playground has hosted numerous WPT events, attracting both local talent and international poker stars. Known for its upscale facilities and vibrant atmosphere, the club is a favorite among players and fans alike. This year, the WPT Montreal featured an array of events leading up to the main $2 million guaranteed Championship, with buy-ins ranging from CAD $300 to $10,500, catering to players with various budget preferences.

One highlight of the festival was the WPT500, which kicked off the event with six starting flights and a $500,000 guaranteed prize pool. In addition to the tournaments, Playground also hosted a special “Meet Up Game” that featured WPT ambassadors, including Brad Owen and Tony Dunst, adding a unique twist for fans and players. This social event allowed enthusiasts to engage with poker icons in a casual setting before diving into the intense championship action.

Notable performances throughout the WPT Montreal Championship included appearances by both established pros and up-and-coming players, with Canadians continuing to shine on their home turf. The event’s culmination saw thrilling final rounds broadcasted live, as contenders battled for the coveted title and entry into the WPT Champions Club. This year’s WPT Montreal not only showcased high-stakes competition but also paid tribute to the legacy of iconic moments from past tournaments, solidifying Playground Poker Club’s role as a central hub for poker in Canada.

Up Next: South Korea

As soon as this tournament ends, the WPT will kick off in Korea at Jeju Shinhwa World’s Landing Casino, a scenic spot well-known to the WPT circuit. The upcoming Jeju Poker Festival will run from November 15 through December 1, offering a full schedule of events, including the anticipated WPT Korea Championship Event with a buy-in of 2,500,000 KRW (around US $1,860) and a substantial prize pool of 1.68 billion KRW (approximately US $1.25 million) across three starting flights.

The @WPT returns to Landing Casino at @jeju_shinhwa World this November for another exciting @WPT Korea event, a part of the Jeju Poker Festival. 🇰🇷

Read about it in the latest Press Release on https://t.co/zvkOqhAwr8 👇https://t.co/U2Afx2qrST

— World Poker Tour (@WPT) October 28, 2024

About Jeju Island

Jeju Island, located off the southern coast of South Korea, is known for its stunning volcanic landscapes, diverse ecosystems, and unique cultural heritage. A UNESCO World Heritage site, Jeju is home to Hallasan Mountain, South Korea’s highest peak, surrounded by lush forests and scenic hiking trails. The island’s volcanic origins are evident in its dramatic lava tubes and cliffs, with Manjanggul Cave being a popular spot to witness this natural wonder. Alongside its natural beauty, Jeju boasts a distinct culture, historically shaped by its native matriarchal society of haenyeo, or female divers, who dive for seafood and hold a special place in the island’s tradition.

Jeju Island is a sensational location and has become a popular stop on the WPT schedule.

Highlighting Jeju Island’s appeal as a popular poker destination, WPT CEO Adam Pliska shared his enthusiasm for the tournament’s return, crediting Landing Casino and Red Dragon for their roles in making this event happen again. This will be the third consecutive year for WPT Korea, a continuation of a busy year of events in the region.

Thanks to our partners at Landing Casino and Red Dragon who have spearheaded the planning to bring WPT Korea back for a second time this season.

Earlier in 2024, Mate Hanusi took first place in a thrilling WPT Korea tournament with 1,065 entries, walking away with a prize of US $322,174. In another notable 2023 event, Yin Tao came out on top in a field of 757 players, winning US $232,667, while poker pro Steve O’Dwyer dominated the 170 million KRW buy-in WPT Alpha 8 One Drop Korea, taking home over US $1 million. The WPT Korea High Roller was also a highlight, with Daniel Merriless winning a 47-entry event for US $205,538.

Landing Casino’s Chief Operating Officer, Jenny Lim, expressed excitement over the continued partnership with the WPT, noting the steady rise of poker tournaments in Korea and their contribution to the game’s growth in the region. In addition to the main WPT Korea Championship, the Jeju Poker Festival will feature two additional major events: the Korea Poker Cup (scheduled from November 21-26) and the Red Dragon Poker Tour (set for November 26-December 1). A special bonus will be awarded to any player who reaches the final table of two or more events, with prize details to be shared on social media soon.

Poker in South Korea and Asia

In South Korea, poker has seen a significant rise in popularity, especially in recent years, largely fueled by the growth of online poker platforms and international events. Despite legal restrictions on gambling for locals, interest in poker remains strong among South Korean players, many of whom participate in online tournaments or travel internationally to play. Major international events, such as the World Poker Tour (WPT), have included South Korea as a stop, drawing attention to poker as a competitive sport rather than just gambling.

Additionally, poker in South Korea has gradually been influenced by cultural openness toward competitive skill-based games. The rise of e-sports and board games has paved the way for poker to be appreciated as a game of skill, strategy, and mental endurance. Many younger South Koreans are keen to explore poker for its strategic depth, and this has led to a budding community of players eager to engage in both online and live events. Though brick-and-mortar casinos are typically restricted to foreigners, the appeal of poker continues to grow, fueled by international events, online communities, and tournaments that allow players to connect with the global poker scene.

Across Asia, poker’s popularity has been booming, with countries like the Philippines, Macau, and Vietnam becoming regional hubs for poker tournaments and attracting players from all over. In Macau, often called the “Vegas of the East,” poker rooms are a staple in major casinos, offering high-stakes games that draw professionals from around the globe. The Philippines has similarly embraced poker, with major tournament series like the Asia Pacific Poker Tour (APPT) drawing in both local and international players. Vietnam has also shown a growing interest, recently hosting several prominent poker events that signal a promising future for the game. This trend across Asia highlights poker’s expanding footprint, with its appeal as a strategic and social game gaining traction in a region that continues to be a key market for the global poker industry.

CoinPoker: A Blockchain-Driven Poker Platform for Crypto Fans

CoinPoker introduces an innovative way to enjoy poker by merging cryptocurrency with traditional gameplay, offering a fresh approach for poker enthusiasts. The platform, established with a foundation in blockchain technology, promotes a decentralized and private environment for its users. While poker and limited sports betting options are the primary focus, CoinPoker has faced hurdles in capturing a larger global gambling audience. Here’s a closer look at how CoinPoker operates and what sets it apart for online poker players.

A Platform Centered on Cryptocurrency and Blockchain Technology

Launched in 2017, CoinPoker’s initial concept allowed players to participate in poker without real-money stakes. By 2018, however, the platform evolved, allowing players to wager with cryptocurrency, bringing an exciting new way to experience poker. Players on the platform earn CHP, CoinPoker’s in-house token, which can be used for betting. CoinPoker supports various prominent cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin, Ethereum, and its own CHP token, enhancing security through Ethereum’s blockchain infrastructure. To ensure fair play, CoinPoker relies on a blockchain-based Random Number Generator (RNG), which safeguards game outcomes from any manipulation. Anonymity is a priority here, as player identities remain protected, even during transactions.

Transparency and Security with Proof of Reserves

CoinPoker emphasizes transparency, adhering to stringent regulations under its Curaçao eGaming license. To assure users of its financial integrity, the platform employs Proof of Reserves (PoR), a system that verifies sufficient funds are available to cover all player deposits. Corporate funds are kept separate from user funds, with recent figures showing approximately $16 million held for player deposits and total reserves estimated at $16.75 million—giving users 105% coverage on their funds.

Commitment to Fairness and Responsible Gaming

CoinPoker uses blockchain-based RNG to maintain fair play across all games, with anti-fraud protocols to combat cheating. The platform also offers sports betting with competitive odds and has an app available on Android and iOS for convenient, mobile access. Responsible gaming is another focus, with tools to help users manage their playing habits. For users struggling with gambling addiction, CoinPoker offers self-exclusion options and has a dedicated responsible gaming officer to ensure compliance with responsible gaming guidelines.

Private and Fast Crypto Transactions

A major highlight for CoinPoker is its commitment to privacy in all transactions. Players can deposit and withdraw using their preferred cryptocurrency wallets, ensuring an anonymous and smooth experience. This focus on privacy is particularly appealing for users who prefer discretion with their online gaming.

Crypto Giveaways and High-Profile Poker Ambassadors

The platform frequently hosts giveaways and collaborates with well-known poker ambassadors. Bobby James, an ambassador for CoinPoker, recently gained attention for his fifth-place finish at the 2024 EPT Cyprus Main Event, where he earned $271,400.

CoinPoker’s own @BobbyJamesPoker is CRUSHING IT at EPT Cyprus! Correctly guess where he’ll finish on tomorrow’s final table and you could win $500! Comment your prediction with your CoinPoker username ⬇️ Entries closed when Day 6 kicks off #EPTCyprus #poker pic.twitter.com/o4ONirLKoS

— CoinPoker (@CoinPoker_OFF) October 19, 2024

To celebrate, CoinPoker featured James in a Sunday giveaway event, inviting fans to participate across various social platforms. Another ambassador, Patrick Leonard, also made a notable showing at the event, securing $26,600 with a 28th-place finish. These collaborations and giveaways have become integral to CoinPoker’s engagement strategy, adding excitement to the platform.

A Unique Choice for Poker Enthusiasts

For poker fans looking for a secure, anonymous platform driven by blockchain, CoinPoker offers a distinctive experience. Although its game variety may be more limited compared to other platforms, its commitment to security, fairness, and responsible gambling practices makes it a compelling choice for those focused on poker.

For fans of crypto and poker, CoinPoker is an intriguing option to explore.