BGMI developer KRAFTON plans to set up an R&D facility in India: India head Sean Hyunil Sohn

PUBG and BGMI-maker KRAFTON will establish an R&D facility in India by 2026, according to the company's India business head Sean Hyunil Sohn.

The facility is aimed at creating games specifically tailored to the Indian market, incorporating cultural elements that resonate with local players. 

Focus on Indian culture and market growth

Sohn said that the details of the facility are yet to be finalised, but the top location choices are Bengaluru and Pune, PTI reported.

KRAFTON’s goal is to develop high-quality games that reflect Indian culture, thereby catering to the unique preferences of Indian gamers.

The company has already witnessed rapid growth in the Indian market, fueled by a burgeoning demand for digital entertainment. Sohn emphasized the importance of creating a strong development team in India to sustain and expand this growth.

Challenges in the Indian gaming ecosystem

Despite the growing popularity of gaming in India, Sohn pointed out several challenges hindering the industry's full potential. One major issue is the shortage of top-quality talent in game development, which Sohn attributes to the relatively short history of the gaming industry in the country.

Additionally, the lack of adequate IT infrastructure and education in game development has limited the pool of skilled professionals.

Sohn stressed the need for a shift in perception towards gaming as a legitimate career option and called for more informed investments in educational infrastructure.

KRAFTON’s investment and support initiatives

To address these challenges, KRAFTON has been actively investing in the Indian gaming ecosystem. Since 2021, the company has invested $160 million in Indian startups and plans to inject an additional $150 million over the next two to three years. 

In October last year, Krafton's India arm launched the KRAFTON India Gaming Incubator (KIGI) to bolster its presence in the country and boost India's growth in the game development sector. 

According to Krafton, the program focuses on nurturing early-stage startups, including those at the conceptual or idea stage, as well as student teams and independent developers.