KRAFTON Bets Big on India with R&D Hub

KRAFTON, the renowned developer behind blockbuster games like PUBG and BGMI, is set to establish a research and development (R&D) unit in India by next year. Announced by Sean Hyunil Sohn, the company’s India business head, the new facility will focus on creating games tailored to Indian cultural preferences and expanding KRAFTON’s local portfolio.

While the precise location is yet to be determined, Bangalore and Pune are leading contenders for the new R&D center. The unit will concentrate on developing high-quality games, leveraging both local talent and international teams to meet the burgeoning demand for digital entertainment in India.

Speaking at the IDGS Gaming Conclave, Sohn highlighted India as one of KRAFTON’s top three markets by user base, though he noted challenges such as a shortage of quality talent and inadequate IT infrastructure for education. He emphasized the need for shifting perceptions of gaming as a viable career and called for increased government support in education and infrastructure.

To support this, KRAFTON has invested $160 million in Indian startups since 2021 and plans to invest an additional $150 million over the next 2-3 years. The company also launched the KRAFTON India Gaming Incubator programme to provide funding, mentorship, and resources to aspiring developers.

Addressing concerns about online gaming's impact, Sohn underscored the importance of moderation and balance, with playtime limits set at three hours per day for minors and six hours for adults. Currently, KRAFTON operates Battleground Mobile India (BGMI), a successor to PUBG, which was banned in India in September 2020.

News by Rahul Yelligetti