Krafton's new chief AI officer says the company 'uses AI as a tool to amplify human imagination and creativity, not replace it' 3 months after it announced a hiring freeze and launched a voluntary resignation programme
PC Gamer
by Fraser Brown February 23, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Krafton’s new Chief AI Officer, Kangwook Lee, has emphasized that AI will be used as a tool to enhance human creativity and imagination rather than replace workers, despite the company’s recent hiring freeze and voluntary resignation program. Lee, who has overseen Krafton’s AI initiatives since 2022, stressed that AI is intended to augment, not diminish, the role of humans in gaming development. This stance comes as Krafton invests heavily in AI, with an $88 million allocation aimed at restructuring its operations around this technology.
The article highlights Krafton’s partnership with Nvidia to integrate AI into its games, specifically through “co-playable characters” or AI-powered NPCs. However, these efforts have so far yielded limited results, with some质疑ing the effectiveness of AI in enhancing creativity compared to traditional human-driven methods. While Lee claims AI will amplify imagination and creativity, he provided no concrete examples, leaving doubts about its practical impact.
Critics argue that Krafton’s focus on AI has led to significant job cuts, raising ethical concerns about prioritizing technology over workforce development. The company’s restructuring has left employees questioning the long-term benefits of AI integration, particularly in areas like game design and player experience. Despite this, Krafton continues to explore AI applications, including robotics research through its subsidiary Ludo Robotics, which could potentially revolutionize gaming experiences.
The broader implications of Krafton’s AI-driven strategy are significant for the gaming industry. If successful, it could set a precedent for other companies looking to balance human creativity with technological advancements. However, the lack of clear progress in AI implementation and ongoing workforce reduction raise important questions about whether AI truly serves as a creative enhancer or merely shifts the burden onto employees while reducing their numbers.
Ultimately, Krafton’s approach to AI highlights the broader tension between technological innovation and human labor in gaming. While AI has potential to streamline operations and enhance creativity, its true impact will depend on how effectively it complements rather than replaces human talent. For now, the jury is still out on whether Krafton’s vision of AI as a creative ally will translate into meaningful results for both players and employees.
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Originally published on PC Gamer on 2/23/2026