- Massive Expansion: Busan City and the Busan IT Industry Promotion Agency (BIPA) are significantly increasing the budget for game production and global marketing.
- AI Transformation (AX): A major focus on integrating AI into development, from automated graphics to NPC dialogue systems.
- Global Ambition: Specialized support for entering emerging markets in Southeast Asia, the Middle East, and South America.
- Talent First: New subsidies and programs to help local studios hire and retain professional developers, artists, and planners.
Busan is doubling down on its reputation as a global gaming hub. On February 24, 2026, the city will host an integrated briefing session to unveil its roadmap for the year. This isn’t just a standard budget increase; it’s a strategic pivot toward AI-driven development and global market dominance for local indie and mid-sized studios.
The AX Revolution: Bringing AI to the Frontlines
As artificial intelligence becomes the new industry standard, Busan is launching an expanded AI Transformation (AX) Support Project. The goal is to lower the barrier for small developers to adopt high-tech solutions.
- Development Automation: Technical support for AI-driven graphics generation and game balancing.
- Interactive NPCs: Consulting on implementing advanced AI dialogue systems to create more immersive worlds.
- Operational Efficiency: Using AI to optimize service operations, reducing the initial cost burden for smaller teams.
Fostering the Indie Spirit and Beyond
The 2026 initiative categorizes support based on the studio’s growth stage, ensuring that no developer is left in the dark.
| Program Type | Target & Key Support |
| Indie Incubating | Discovery of new talent, providing initial funding, office space, and specialized mentoring. |
| Content Competitiveness | Substantial production grants for mid-sized developers to create high-quality, market-ready titles. |
| Recruitment Support | Financial aid for hiring professional personnel to prevent talent drain to other regions. |
Global Reach: Beyond the Domestic Market
BIPA is shifting its focus from simple exhibition attendance to strategic market penetration.
- Emerging Markets: Specialized missions to Southeast Asia, the Middle East, and South America to establish long-term partnerships.
- Business Full-Cycle Support: Beyond just “booking a booth,” the city will help with local marketing strategies, contract negotiations, and post-exhibition follow-ups.
- Networking Hubs: Continued support for major events like G-STAR, the Tokyo Game Show, and the Busan Indie Wave Conference.
Event Details & Registration
The briefing will serve as a one-stop shop for developers to understand the new application criteria and evaluation standards.
- Date & Time: February 24, 2026, at 2:00 PM
- Location: 5th Floor, Multi-purpose Space, Busan Cultural Content Complex (BCC)
- Registration: Prospective entrepreneurs and existing game companies can sign up via the BIPA official website (busanit.or.kr).
“We have completely reorganized our support system to reflect the actual needs of the field and the rapid technological shifts in the industry,” said Kim Tae-yeol, President of BIPA.
