Krafton Announces Additional $250 Million Investment in India to Expand Beyond Gaming
South Korean gaming giant Krafton has announced an additional $250 million investment in India over the next three to four years, expanding its focus beyond gaming into AI and deep tech. This brings its total planned investment in India to more than $500 million since 2021. The new funding is separate from a previously announced $670 million growth fund with Naver and Mirae Asset. Krafton has faced regulatory challenges, including the Indian government's ban on PUBG Mobile due to concerns over Chinese ties, which led to the launch of its localized version, Battlegrounds Mobile India (BGMI). Despite setbacks like BGMI’s temporary 2022 ban in India, Krafton continues expanding through investments and local partnerships. Recently, it acquired a game studio and launched an academy for digital talent training. Krafton has already invested in over 18 Indian startups across gaming and other sectors, including Nodwin Gaming and Pratilipi. The company's chairman met with India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi to discuss deeper collaboration between the two countries on emerging technologies. Krafton also plans to launch BGMI Lite by late 2026 after a trial period following its return in early 2023.
Topics: AI deep tech gaming India market expansion robotics