Krafton, known for publishing popular games such as PUBG and Subnautica 2, has initiated a voluntary resignation program open to all its employees as part of a broader organizational transformation. Starting November 12, 2025, Krafton employees can choose to leave the company with severance packages ranging from 6 to 36 months’ salary, depending on their years of service and rank.
According to a Krafton representative, this program is designed not as a layoff but rather as a support system to help employees proactively plan their career growth amid the company’s new focus on artificial intelligence. Krafton has publicly declared itself an “AI-first” company and is investing heavily—roughly $70 million—in AI infrastructure including GPU clusters to incorporate AI solutions across its operations.
Program Details and Objectives
The voluntary separation choice program offers full autonomy to employees whether to continue their career within Krafton or explore new opportunities externally. Unlike traditional retirement or layoff schemes, this program applies to all employees regardless of tenure, rank, or department.
In line with the shift towards AI, Krafton has put a freeze on hiring for all departments not directly involved with AI or original intellectual property development. This move aims to reallocate resources and prioritize roles that support their AI-first strategic vision.
Industry and Internal Context
This move follows Krafton’s record-breaking cumulative operating profit of 1.05 trillion South Korean Won reported for the first three quarters of 2025, highlighting that the company’s transformation is not driven by financial distress but by strategic growth and evolving business priorities.
Business Korea and Eurogamer reports emphasize that the restructuring focuses on fostering a culture where employees harness AI technologies while providing them freedom to choose their professional paths freely both inside and outside the company.
What This Means for Employees and the Industry
Voluntary resignation programs like Krafton’s signal a trend where companies embrace AI-driven workflows and seek adaptable workforce strategies rather than traditional layoffs. Offering generous severance aims to maintain good employee relations while reshaping the company to meet future demands.
For employees, it offers a chance to opt out well-compensated and pursue new challenges, possibly in emerging sectors influenced by AI. However, it also reflects the growing impact of AI on game development and publishing, reshaping roles and necessitating new skill sets.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Krafton’s voluntary resignation program?
It is a program starting November 12, 2025, allowing Krafton employees to voluntarily leave the company with severance pay of up to 36 months’ salary as the company shifts towards an AI-first business model.
Is this the same as layoffs?
No, Krafton stresses that this program is voluntary and is meant to support employees in deciding their career paths, rather than a forced workforce reduction.
Why is Krafton focusing on AI?
Krafton has declared itself an AI-first company, investing heavily in AI infrastructure and applying AI across its development and operations to improve productivity and innovate its products.
Will Krafton be hiring during this period?
Hiring is currently frozen for departments unrelated to AI or original IP development, matching the company’s strategic shift.
What severance packages are being offered?
Employees who opt for voluntary resignation can receive severance ranging from six to 36 months’ salary, based on their tenure and position.
Is Krafton financially troubled?
No, the company recently reported record-breaking profits and views AI-driven restructuring as a growth initiative rather than a cost-cutting measure.
Conclusion
Krafton’s launch of a voluntary resignation program amid its transition to an AI-first company reflects a modern approach to workforce management and organizational innovation. The program provides employees with autonomy and generous support as the publisher navigates shifting industry landscapes shaped by AI. While it signals significant internal changes, Krafton’s strong financial position coupled with strategic investments in AI suggest a focused vision for future growth and adaptability.