Krafton Invests $250M Beyond Gaming in India

Krafton, the South Korean gaming giant known for PUBG and BGMI, has committed an additional $250 million to its investments in India over the next three to four years. This significant pledge is set to expand the company's operational scope beyond its established gaming sector into emerging fields such as artificial intelligence, robotics, and deep technology.

The recent announcement elevates Krafton's total planned investment in India to over $500 million. This figure includes its prior investments exceeding $250 million since 2021 and is separate from a $670 million India-focused growth fund. This strategy highlights India's crucial role for Krafton, providing access to its vast internet and smartphone user base.

Krafton's journey in India has seen regulatory hurdles, including the ban of PUBG Mobile in 2020 and BGMI in 2022, before its subsequent return. Despite these challenges, the company has actively supported about 18 Indian startups, including gaming studios like Nodwin Gaming and platforms like Loco and Kuku FM.

This new investment follows a meeting between Krafton chairman Byung Gyu Chang and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, where discussions focused on bilateral cooperation in gaming and technology. Krafton has also strengthened its local presence through acquisitions, such as Nautilus Mobile, and initiatives like KIGI Academy for talent development.