Kakao Games bets on 'Realm of Dokkaebi' for turnaround. Published: Aug. 20, 2026 - 14:23:23 Kan Hyeong-woo New title based on mythical creature from Korean folklore set for October launch Kakao Games on Thursday unveiled Realm of Dokkaebi, an upcoming 2.5D massively multiplayer online role-playing game based on the Korean mythical creature Dokkaebi, as the game developer pursues a turnaround in the second half of this year. The new MMORPG, which began pre-registration at noon, combines 2D pixel-art characters with 3D backgrounds to create a hybrid visual style. The game incorporates elements of traditional Korean aesthetics into its pixel art to underline the cultural fantasy. "Realm of Dokkaebi is a title that preserves the fundamental fun of MMORPGs while incorporating a modern feel," said Lee Si-woo, co-CEO of Kakao Games, during the media showcase held at the Korea House in central Seoul. "The combination of Korean-inspired themes and a unique background has the potential to become (intellectual property) that can appeal to not only domestic players but also global audiences." According to Kakao Games, the new title will officially launch in October with plans to extend the service to overseas markets later on. One of the game's key features is the infinite skill deck-building system, which allows players to combine 12 different skill styles regardless of their character type. The game will also offer an optional player-versus-player system that lets players decide whether to participate in PvP battles. Kakao Games highlighted that an in-game artificial intelligence assistant will provide information based on users' in-game activity data, so players can make more informed decisions to enhance their gaming experiences and achieve different goals. The Korean game firm logged 23 billion won ($17 million) in operating loss in the second quarter of this year, marking the seventh consecutive quarter of losses. [email protected]

South Korean gaming company Kakao Games has extended an 8 billion won ($5.8 million) long-term loan to its blockchain-focused subsidiary Meta Bora, according to IBTOMATO. Meta Bora has been in full capital impairment since 2021, meaning its liabilities exceed its assets. The loan appears to be a refinancing effort, shifting Meta Bora's debt from external financial institutions to its parent company. This move may provide more flexible repayment terms and reduce immediate pressure on the struggling subsidiary. The decision signals Kakao Games' continued commitment to Meta Bora despite three years of financial difficulties. However, it raises questions about the subsidiary's long-term viability, as Meta Bora has yet to generate sufficient operational cash flow to repay existing loans. The refinancing reflects broader challenges in the blockchain gaming sector amid market volatility and regulatory uncertainties.

Kakao Games announced plans to restore investor confidence through strategic restructuring and a pipeline of new game releases. The South Korean gaming company secured 300 billion won through capital increase and convertible bonds following its acquisition by an LY Corporation-backed entity. Co-CEOs Kim Tae-hwan and Lee Si-woo outlined plans to launch major titles including The World of Goblin, ArcheAge Chronicle, and Dungeon Arise this year. Additional releases are scheduled for early next year. The company expects profitability to improve in Q1 next year as new game revenues materialise. Management will focus on capital efficiency, reducing financing costs, and restructuring non-core projects whilst restraining organisational expansion. Kakao Games denied merger rumours with Line Games but remains open to business cooperation. The company plans shareholder return measures including share buybacks and treasury share cancellation.