Hybe's Gaming Division Secures $20.5M Investment to Expand K-Pop Gaming Portfolio
Hybe IM, the gaming subsidiary of K-pop entertainment giant Hybe, has secured $20.5 million (₩30 billion) in new funding to expand its gaming operations and leverage K-pop artist IPs. The investment comes from existing backer IMM Investment contributing half the amount, alongside new investors Shinhan Venture Investment and Daesung Private Equity.
Hybe IM president Wooyong Chung, whose company has announced a new raise. Photo Credit: Hybe
This latest funding brings Hybe IM's total raised capital to ₩137.5 billion ($93.5 million). The company plans to focus on developing titles like Architect: Land of Exiles, an MMORPG showcased in November, and the upcoming Arkheron. They also aim to expand their portfolio using Hybe's K-pop artist IPs, building on previous successes like BTS Island: In the SEOM Puzzle.
The company's strategy aligns with Hybe's broader diversification efforts beyond K-pop, including initiatives like the Weverse superfan app and Binary Korea's Theus platform. With BTS' upcoming reunion and Hybe's strong superfan foundation, the company is well-positioned to develop games that resonate with their core audience.
Wooyong Chung, Hybe IM's president and former Nexon executive, stated that the funding will strengthen the company's global competitiveness in game publishing and development. The immediate focus will be on marketing, operations, and localization strategies.
This move reflects a broader trend in the K-pop industry, with companies like Kakao Entertainment also expanding into digital platforms and content creation through initiatives like their global fan platform Berriz, which offers content in 18 languages.
The gaming subsidiary's expansion demonstrates Hybe's commitment to diversifying its entertainment portfolio while capitalizing on its strong K-pop IP assets and established fan base.