World Poker Tour Enterprises Inc., the operator of the international poker tournament series, appeared to criticize the worsening relationship between South Korea and China, citing “factors beyond our control.”
WPT National Korea is Seoul-based FaradaParada, run by Is Company LimitedStarting at Is Casino Jeju Grand, it was scheduled to run , and presented a $1,310 purchase main event that guarantees a minimum of $174,719.
“Because of factors beyond our control, WPT announces the cancellation of WPT National Korea today,” a brief statement from WPT Enterprises Inc. released on Monday said. “As you know, several major airlines have suspended air travel to the area. For the benefit of our players, this event will no longer be held. WPT regrets any inconvenience this may cause and appreciates your understanding.”
Relations between China and South Korea have deteriorated since the U.S. began implementing the missile interception system of the Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) provided by the U.S. earlier this month. The move came in response to the recent international criticism of North Korea’s Kim Jong-un regime’s repeated short-range missile tests and heightened regional tensions.
As a result, China has stopped applying for visas that allow its citizens to travel to Korea and has begun to reduce the number of flights. China Eastern Airlines suspended services from Ningbo to Jeju and Cheongju yesterday, while Spring Airlines and OK Airlines will stop services from Zhejiang to Jeju International Airport from tomorrow.
WPT Enterprises Incorporated’s next major poker tournament series will now be held from March 31 to April 5 at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Florida, offering a $3,500 main event with a $2 million prize for its top-ranked competitor.