Krafton, the company behind PUBG and Subnautica 2, is embroiled in controversy after reports surfaced that CEO Kim Chang-han allegedly used ChatGPT to seek advice on how to avoid paying bonuses to the developers of Subnautica 2. This disclosure emerged amidst a fierce legal battle involving the fired founders of Unknown Worlds, the studio behind the game.
The legal dispute centers on approximately $250 million in earn-out payments that the former developers claim they are owed following Krafton’s $500 million acquisition in 2021. Allegedly, the CEO was looking for ways to circumvent these payments, reportedly asking ChatGPT for strategies to do so.
Krafton has countered these claims, stating they have no records of these ChatGPT conversations and accusing the former leaders of obstruction and misrepresentation. They maintain that every decision was focused on ensuring the best outcomes for Subnautica 2 players, despite the discord behind the scenes.
This revelation has provoked widespread discussion within the gaming community about corporate ethics, the role of AI in executive decisions, and the treatment of development teams. The incident also highlights the increasing intersection of AI tools with business and legal strategies.
Meanwhile, Krafton continues to push forward with Subnautica 2’s development, aiming for a 2026 release, though the shadow of this dispute hangs over the franchise’s future.
FAQs
What did Krafton CEO allegedly do with ChatGPT?
The CEO is alleged to have asked ChatGPT for advice on how to avoid paying earn-out bonuses to Subnautica 2 developers.
Who are the parties involved in the legal dispute?
The fired founders of Unknown Worlds and Krafton are in litigation over unpaid earn-out payments related to Subnautica 2.
Has Krafton acknowledged these ChatGPT conversations?
Krafton claims it has no records of the conversations and disputes the allegations.
What is the financial scope of the dispute?
Approximately $250 million in earn-out payments following a $500 million acquisition.
When is Subnautica 2 expected to release?
The anticipated release year is 2026, though official details remain pending.
Conclusion
The allegations that Krafton’s CEO turned to AI tools to find ways to avoid paying development bonuses underscore growing concerns about the ethical use of artificial intelligence in corporate governance. This high-profile dispute sheds light on the challenges game developers face behind the scenes and emphasizes the need for transparency and fairness in the rapidly evolving gaming industry.