Naver seeks to complete acquisition of Spain's Wallapop, steps up European expansion SEOUL, December 18 (AJP) - South Korean internet company Naver Corp. is entering the final stages of its acquisition of Wallapop, Spain’s largest consumer-to-consumer marketplace, accelerating its expansion into Europe, industry sources said on Thursday. Naver said the deal is aimed at strengthening its position in the global consumer market while enhancing services through the integration of its core artificial intelligence technologies. Naver said on Tuesday that it will acquire about 562.7 million shares of its Spain-based subsidiary, NW Holdings, for 972.7 billion won. The transaction converts funds previously lent by Naver to the local unit to finance the Wallapop purchase into equity. Once the share acquisition is completed on March 30 next year, NW Holdings will become a wholly owned subsidiary of Naver, effectively completing the financial procedures related to the Wallapop acquisition. Founded in Spain, Wallapop operates one of Europe’s largest secondhand marketplaces, with about 19 million monthly active users. The platform offers a wide range of listings, from daily necessities to electronics and automobiles, and has recently expanded beyond Spain into southern European markets, including Italy and Portugal. Naver has been building its stake in Wallapop in stages since 2021. The latest investment secures full control of the company, including management rights, Naver said. The company plans to integrate its search, advertising and payment solutions into Wallapop, while applying AI technologies to improve operational efficiency and profitability. A key part of the strategy is the deployment of an “AI agent.” At its DAN 25 conference in November, Naver unveiled plans for an AI agent capable of understanding user context and managing the entire transaction process — from product discovery and search to payment and delivery booking — through a single interface. Naver said its experience operating an end-to-end digital ecosystem could generate strong synergies when applied to a global platform such as Wallapop. The acquisition is also strategically important from a data perspective, the company said. As AI model performance becomes increasingly standardized, access to large volumes of proprietary data is emerging as a critical competitive advantage. Naver expects Wallapop’s extensive user community data and real-time insights into product trends to further strengthen its AI capabilities. “The acquisition of Wallapop is a strategic choice to secure data and sustain long-term growth in the consumer-to-consumer segment,” Chief Executive Choi Soo-yeon, said. “By combining Naver’s technology with a global platform, we aim to create new value.” 2025-12-18 09:26:54

South Korea's Wemade to launch 'Mir M' role-playing game in China SEOUL, December 16 (AJP) - South Korean game developer Wemade said Tuesday it will officially launch its multiplayer online role-playing game Mir M in China next month, aiming to regain traction in the world’s largest gaming market. In China, the title will be released as Mir M: Twilight Double Dragons, a modern adaptation of Wemade’s long-running hit Legend of Mir 2. Legend of Mir 2 once dominated China’s online gaming market, capturing a 65 percent market share in 2004. The game was also listed in the Guinness Book of Records in 2005 after reaching 800,000 concurrent users. Wemade said it plans to capitalize on the franchise’s strong brand recognition to accelerate its re-entry into the Chinese market, where competition has intensified and regulatory scrutiny remains high. To improve its chances of success, the company has implemented an extensive localization strategy, incorporating feedback from multiple pre-launch tests and reflecting current player preferences in China. While retaining signature elements such as eight-directional grid-based combat and a quarter-view perspective, the game’s combat system, equipment progression and user interface have been redesigned for local audiences. Wemade has also added China-exclusive cinematic content and unique design features to enhance player immersion. An early access server launched on Dec. 4 has been operating smoothly, the company said, with user data set to carry over to the official release. Wemade said it is focusing on service stability and optimization ahead of the full launch. * This article, published by Economic Daily, was translated by AI and edited by AJP. 2025-12-16 15:35:51

KT, Samsung prove performance of AI-driven telecom network, paving way for 6G SEOUL, December 11 (AJP) - South Korean telecom company KT said Thursday it has successfully tested its artificial intelligence–based Radio Access Network (AI-RAN) technology on a commercial mobile network, marking a key step toward next-generation 6G communications. Developed jointly with Samsung Electronics, the AI-RAN system analyzes real-time data exchanged between base stations and user devices to optimize radio settings on an individual basis — a sharp departure from conventional network configurations that apply uniform parameters across cell areas. The companies began co-developing the technology in 2023 and recently expanded collaboration with Nvidia to accelerate GPU-based optimization and large-scale data processing. The live-network validation took place in Seongnam, south of Seoul, in an environment involving roughly 18,000 daily users. KT said the AI-RAN reduced dropped calls during handovers between base stations and improved service quality for users with similar mobility patterns, boosting overall network efficiency. By continuously analyzing indicators such as signal strength and quality variations, the AI-RAN predicts potential disruptions and adapts settings per user in real time. The approach is designed to maintain stable connectivity and enhance perceived quality in dense urban areas, where interference and mobility frequently degrade performance. “This achievement confirms AI’s potential to transform user experiences in real networks,” said Jung Jin-kook, head of Samsung Research’s Next-Generation Communication Research Center. “We will keep advancing these technologies to lead future communications.” Lee Jong-sik, head of KT’s Future Network Research Center, said the results highlight a shift from provider-centric to user-centric network operations. “We aim to secure core 6G technologies and further enhance customer value through continued collaboration with Samsung,” he said. * This article, published by Economic Daily, was translated by AI and edited by AJP. 2025-12-11 10:57:49

Naver's shopping app emerges as Korea's fastest-growing e-commerce platform SEOUL, December 09 (AJP) - Naver’s shopping app, Naver Plus Store, has emerged as the fastest-growing platform in South Korea’s e-commerce market this year, according to market data. Data from Sensor Tower released on Tuesday showed that Naver Plus Store ranked first in both downloads and growth in South Korea between January and October, underscoring the success of Naver’s strategy to launch a standalone, AI-focused commerce application. While Coupang continues to lead in monthly active users (MAU), the report said Naver Plus Store is rapidly narrowing the gap, posting the fastest MAU growth among major shopping apps. Upon its launch in March, the app topped popularity charts on Google Play and Apple App Store, and outpaced ChatGPT in downloads between March and May. By October, cumulative downloads approached 800,000. User data indicated that Naver’s AI-driven approach has been effective in appealing to key consumer segments. Women accounted for 58 percent of users, while 41 percent were aged between 35 and 44, highlighting strong traction among household decision-makers. Globally, the report showed China-based Temu leading in both downloads and MAU growth, while India’s Blinkit ranked first in download growth, reflecting rising potential in emerging markets. Sensor Tower said global e-commerce app downloads increased by 45 percent compared with 2019 levels, as online shopping habits became entrenched after the pandemic. “As user acquisition slows in mature markets, competition is shifting toward retaining existing users and improving service experiences,” Sensor Tower said in a press release, adding that emerging regions such as Latin America and Africa are becoming key growth engines. * This article, published by Economic Daily, was translated by AI and edited by AJP. 2025-12-09 15:57:53

South Korea's MegazoneCloud expands US push amid AI, cloud services boom SEOUL, December 09 (AJP) - South Korea’s MegazoneCloud is accelerating its expansion in the United States, targeting $300 million in revenue next year as demand for artificial intelligence and cloud migration continues to rise. The company said it will deepen cooperation with Amazon Web Services (AWS) and expand its U.S. workforce and sales network to drive growth. U.S. revenue stood at $29 million last year. The expansion plan was unveiled at the annual AWS re:Invent conference in Las Vegas on Dec. 3. Chief Executive Officer Yeom Dong-hoon, newly appointed U.S. Chief Revenue Officer John Providence and Chief Technology Officer Scott Weber outlined plans to scale operations in major markets including New York, California and Texas. MegazoneCloud said its strategy centers on a close alliance with AWS. Yeom said his experience leading AWS’s global partner organization would help the company expand strategic partnerships and address gaps in AWS’s professional services capability. “We will fill demand that AWS cannot meet directly due to resource constraints,” Yeom said. The company plans to move beyond cloud infrastructure management into higher-value services such as generative AI, data modernization and quantum computing. It currently operates an in-house AI platform, “Air Studio,” and a security brand, “Halo." Initial target industries include automotive, manufacturing and financial services. The company said it plans to expand from its existing work with Hyundai Motor America to broader automotive supply chains and pursue large-scale projects with U.S. clients, including the PGA Tour. To improve efficiency, MegazoneCloud said it will establish a 24-hour operating model by integrating engineers in South Korea and Vietnam with U.S.-based teams, using time-zone differences to provide continuous development and support. Despite perceptions that the U.S. market is mature, Yeom said substantial growth opportunities remain. “We aim to deliver meaningful results in the U.S. by applying proven strategies from Korea and Vietnam,” he said. * This article, published by Aju Business Daily, was translated by AI and edited by AJP. 2025-12-09 10:54:04

Largest animation and gaming festival wraps up after drawing 100,000 visitors SEOUL, December 8 (AJP) - South Korea's largest animation and gaming festival, the Anime X Game Festival (AGF), concluded on Sunday after attracting more than 100,000 attendees, making it the festival's most successful year yet. The three-day festival, kicked last Friday at KINTEX in Goyang, drew 40 percent more visitors than last year's 72,081. Despite sub-zero temperatures and heavy snowfall on the opening day, fans lined up early, with some even waiting overnight. The diverse crowd, including teenagers and families, highlighted the growing mainstream appeal of what was once considered a subculture. Major gaming developers participated, with Smilegate unveiling its tactical time-travel RPG "MIRESI: Invisible Future" alongside its popular "Epic Seven." Nexon showcased "Mabinogi Mobile," recreating the game's village for an immersive experience. NCSoft made their first appearance at the festival with interactive events for its upcoming release, "Limit Zero Breakers." Netmarble celebrated the eighth anniversary of "Fate/Grand Order" with a booth featuring interactive games and a variety of other events. Other developers and companies also captivated fans with their popular characters and costumes. The festival's signature stage events including anime song performances, attracted enthusiastic crowds and added to the lively atmosphere. Organizers said, "The festival has established itself as a fandom event, and we aim to enhance its programs next year to become a leading global festival." * This article, published by Economic Daily, was translated by AI and edited by AJP. 2025-12-08 13:43:52

Hancom Lifecare to supply K5 gas masks to Korean military SEOUL, December 05 (AJP) - Hancom Lifecare, a safety equipment subsidiary of Hancom Group, said Friday it has secured a major contract to supply gas masks to the South Korean armed forces. The company said it signed a 185 billion won ($13.8 million) agreement with the Defense Acquisition Program Administration to deliver about 80,000 K5 gas masks by 2026. The K5 model, developed between 2010 and 2014, features a single-lens visor for improved visibility and dual filters designed to lower breathing resistance. It is built to withstand extreme operating environments. Hancom Lifecare began mass production of the K5 in 2015 and has since secured a steady stream of orders. The Ministry of National Defense plans to replace older masks with K5 units by 2030 under a 2.9 trillion won procurement program. The company has also been broadening its defense portfolio beyond fire and safety equipment to include laser target designators and various training systems. * This article, published by Aju Business Daily, was translated by AI and edited by AJP. 2025-12-05 14:25:16

South Korea's Webzen slapped fine for manipulating game item odds, misleading players SEOUL, December 01 (AJP) - South Korean game developer Webzen has been fined for manipulating item acquisition probabilities in its mobile title Mu Archangel and misleading players, the Korea Fair Trade Commission (FTC) said on Monday. The regulator imposed a 158 million won (about $120,000) penalty for failing to disclose mechanisms that significantly reduced users’ chances of obtaining rare in-game items. According to the FTC, between June 2020 and March 2024 Webzen sold three types of randomized, paid items while hiding a so-called “floor system,” which blocked players from acquiring rare items until they made a minimum number of purchases. The FTC ruled the company had violated e-commerce law by using deceitful practices to induce spending. Of roughly 20,000 affected players, only 860 were compensated, prompting the regulator to issue a heavier fine than in comparable cases involving publishers such as Gravity and Com2uS. Player groups criticized the penalty as insufficient, noting that Webzen earned approximately $5.6 million from the sales linked to the deceptive system. The Game Users Association and the Webzen Game Victims Group said they plan to file a civil lawsuit seeking additional compensation, arguing that more than 95 percent of affected users remain uncompensated. An FTC official said the penalty was calculated under the country’s current e-commerce regulations. * This article, published by Economic Daily, was translated by AI and edited by AJP. 2025-12-01 15:47:11

Nexon shares fly in Tokyo with cap nearing $20 bn on strong pipeline SEOUL, November 28 (AJP) - Tokyo-listed shares of South Korean game publisher Nexon have hit their highest level since 2021, sending its market valuation of around $20 billion as investors rally behind its live-service games and global expansion strategy of CEO Lee Jung-hun. Nexon shared closed Thursday at ¥3,768 on the Tokyo Stock Exchange, lifting its market cap above ¥3.1 trillion (around $19.8 billion) and extending an upward trend that began after its strong third-quarter earnings announcement on Nov. 11. The surge reflects growing market confidence in Lee’s roadmap, first outlined at the Tokyo Capital Market Briefing in September last year. The strategy aims to extend the lifecycle of existing hit franchises while aggressively developing new IP, setting a target of ¥750 billion in sales by 2027. Since its announcement, Nexon’s market value has increased by more than 30 percent, underscoring the degree to which investors view Nexon as a global IP powerhouse rather than a Korea-centric game publisher. Live-service games remain a major engine of growth. MapleStory revenue tripled year over year, driven by user-focused updates and closer community communication, while Dungeon & Fighter and the FC sports franchise continued to deliver steady performance. Nexon also widened its portfolio with cross-genre hits such as the indie-style adventure Dave the Diver and the subculture favorite Blue Archive, reinforcing its ability to sustain multiple audiences and platforms simultaneously. This year, Nexon’s “horizontal growth” has come into clearer focus as the company evolved into a multi-platform publisher spanning mobile, PC, and console. Mabinogi Mobile, released in March, captured the original game’s spirit and won the Grand Prize at the 2025 Korea Game Awards. First Berserker: Kazan, also launched in March, secured top honors for creativity and technical achievement. In the second half, Swedish subsidiary Embark Studios released Arc Raiders globally on Oct. 30, selling more than four million copies by mid-November. The idle RPG Maple Growing, launched on Nov. 6, delivered strong initial momentum, adding further diversity to Nexon’s gaming ecosystem. Looking ahead, Nexon is preparing a robust pipeline intended to carry its momentum into the next several years. Vindictus: Defying Fate, a leading demo at Steam Next Fest in June, has demonstrated the potential for extending the Mabinogi IP into new markets. New titles tied to the Dungeon & Fighter universe—including Project Overkill and Dungeon & Fighter: Arad—are scheduled for release through 2027. The company is also developing new IP such as the zombie-survival title Paradise: LAST PARADISE and Nexon Games’ narrative-driven Uchi the Wayfarer. “We plan to accelerate growth across both core franchises and new IPs under our expansion strategy,” CEO Lee said during the third-quarter earnings call, emphasizing that a diversified and globally scalable portfolio will reinforce Nexon’s long-term stability in the international market. Japanese securities analysts expect Nexon to post record fourth-quarter and annual results, forecasting continued momentum in both live-service revenue and new releases. With its expanded global pipeline and renewed franchise strength, Nexon is increasingly viewed as a regional IP leader reshaping the trajectory of Korea’s gaming sector. * This article, published by Economic Daily, was translated by AI and edited by AJP. 2025-11-28 13:14:09

South Korea's Daum portal to spin off as AXZ after 11 years under Kakao SEOUL, November 28 (AJP) - South Korea’s No. 2 portal site Daum will be spun off into a standalone company named AXZ on Dec. 1, marking its first legal separation from Kakao in 11 years in a bid to revive competitiveness in the portal business, industry officials said Friday. Kakao will transfer Daum’s service rights to AXZ, a subsidiary established in May to prepare for the split. The move ends a decade-long integration following Kakao’s 2014 merger with Daum Communications. Starting next month, AXZ will operate Daum’s key services, including search, news, shopping, online communities and email. Tistory, the long-running blogging platform, will also be overseen by AXZ under a plan announced last month. The spin-off is designed to restore agility at Daum, whose development pace slowed under Kakao’s sprawling corporate structure. “The separation will strengthen our portal expertise and create a more flexible environment for experimentation, enabling swift, independent decision-making and new value creation,” a Kakao official said. Ahead of the transfer, Kakao updated its privacy policy on Nov. 24, removing Daum from its list of data-processing services and deleting related data-collection provisions across Daum pages and customer centers. Despite the legal separation, the two companies will continue to share certain user data. AXZ will supply Kakao with information from Daum’s integrated search, news consumption patterns and Tistory logs, which Kakao plans to use to improve personalized recommendations and advertising within KakaoTalk. Industry analysts say this reflects the continued need for data synergies across the broader Kakao ecosystem. Users will also see changes to the login procedure for Daum Games, which is operated by Kakao Games. The unified Daum-Kakao account login system will be revised following the split. * This article, published by Economic Daily, was translated by AI and edited by AJP. 2025-11-28 08:43:21