Krafton India expects the country’s gaming market to expand at a double-digit annual growth rate in the coming years, supported by a base of nearly half a billion gamers. Despite relatively modest revenues today, the company sees strong potential for monetisation as the market matures. Sean Hyunil Sohn, Chief Executive Officer of Krafton India, as per CNBC TV18 said the company anticipates steady expansion and remains committed to the Indian market. The company earlier announced plans to have IPL styled league for its flagship BGMI.
Since 2021, Krafton has invested around 200 million US dollars in India and plans to commit at least 50 million dollars annually. The company is also evaluating new investments and acquisitions to deepen its presence. A potential listing in India is part of Krafton’s long-term vision, with Sohn noting that the company would be keen to pursue such an opportunity in the future.
India’s gaming market is estimated to have between 400 million and 500 million users, but monetisation remains challenging. Social gaming revenue currently stands at just over one billion US dollars, while the proportion of paying users and the average revenue per user continue to lag behind global standards. Battlegrounds Mobile India, Krafton’s flagship title, has recorded about 240 million downloads in four years, underscoring the scale but also the revenue constraints.
The outlook for companies like Krafton has been bolstered by the enactment of the Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Act, 2025. The law draws a clear distinction between real-money games, which have been banned, and esports and social gaming, which have been recognised and encouraged. The legislation directs the government to develop infrastructure, training facilities and events for esports, signalling official support for the sector’s growth.
Sohn said Krafton welcomes the regulatory clarity and believes the government is keen to encourage the gaming industry for economic growth and job creation. The company does not foresee obstacles in areas such as in-app purchases or subscriptions, noting that existing practices are in line with global standards.
With a clearer legal environment and official recognition of esports, Krafton believes India is well placed to emerge as one of the most significant markets in the global gaming industry, even as challenges in monetisation and user conversion persist.