Krafton, the South Korean publisher behind PUBG, has promoted Kangwook Lee to chief AI officer. Lee has run Krafton AI since 2022 and will now direct the company's full AI research agenda and technology planning. The promotion signals Krafton's push to embed artificial intelligence deeper into game development and studio operations, aiming for both creative gains and workflow improvements.
Lee's responsibilities now span AI strategy across every Krafton team. He'll focus on three areas: making games more engaging through AI-powered features, streamlining production pipelines, and identifying new revenue opportunities. His track record in AI research and project leadership made him the clear choice. Lee has consistently argued that AI should amplify what developers can do, not replace them.
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AI-driven gameplay and new tech
Krafton's AI roadmap targets practical developer support and better player experiences. The company has organized its AI work around three priorities: enhancing gameplay with intelligent systems, boosting efficiency in production and operations, and exploring AI-enabled business models. Lee has been clear that AI is meant to expand creative possibilities, not automate them away.
Lee has already shipped significant AI projects at Krafton. In 2025, the studio partnered with NVIDIA to build co-playable characters that respond to players in real time. Krafton also developed its own AI foundation model to power future game features. These efforts aim to deliver more reactive, personalized gameplay while testing what AI can unlock in interactive entertainment.
Lee's research background
Kangwook Lee's expertise covers deep learning, natural language processing, reinforcement learning, and multimodal AI. He's led R&D teams at Krafton and published 57 papers at major AI conferences. Lee recently left a tenured academic position to focus entirely on Krafton's AI strategy, dedicating himself to long-term research and emerging fields like physical AI.
What's next for Krafton
Krafton plans to expand its core AI capabilities while testing new ways to engage players and optimize operations. The company is betting on sustainable, research-driven growth that ties AI directly to its games. By weaving AI tools into both development and live gameplay, Krafton hopes to create richer experiences and stay ahead of industry shifts.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Who is Kangwook Lee?
Kangwook Lee is Krafton's new chief AI officer. He previously ran Krafton AI and has deep experience in deep learning, machine learning, and AI research.
What will Lee do at Krafton?
Lee will lead company-wide AI research, shape long-term innovation plans, and roll out AI projects that improve gameplay, efficiency, and business growth.
What are Krafton's AI priorities?
Krafton focuses on three pillars: better gameplay, more efficient operations, and new growth opportunities through AI.
What projects has Lee led at Krafton?
Lee has overseen projects including co-playable characters built with NVIDIA and Krafton's proprietary AI foundation model.
How does Krafton view AI in gaming?
Krafton treats AI as a tool to support human creativity and player engagement, not as a substitute for developers or creative work.
Why does this appointment matter?
The move shows Krafton's commitment to AI innovation and long-term technology development, positioning the studio to improve game design and operational performance.
