The Co-CEO of Neowiz, the company behind Lies of P, states that the Korean government is facilitating a boom in the indie game sector

Sean Kim, co-CEO of Neowiz, the developer behind Lies of P, has highlighted the South Korean government's efforts to fortify the independent game development sector. In a discussion with Knowledge, Kim mentioned an uptick in the number of indie developers within the region. He pointed out the interest big corporations have in publishing games from this emerging part of the industry, though he noted a shift towards more careful investment strategies recently.

"The government is playing a key role in nurturing indie developers," stated Kim. He further elaborated that South Korea is witnessing a surge in indie studios, primarily driven by young, talented Korean developers. The scene is attracting medium and large publishers who are increasingly exploring the indie market while gradually transitioning toward the PC and console gaming domains, as the mobile gaming sector reaches saturation.

Funding dynamics have evolved, with venture capitalists exercising more caution. Raising capital is challenging unless the project is significantly ambitious, noted Kim.

Neowiz, having redirected its focus from mobile and online games, is future-oriented towards single-player premium titles for console and PC. Their strategic approach includes a diverse portfolio comprising both internal projects—such as a sequel to Lies of P—and collaborations with external developers such as Wolfeye Studios and Zakazane Studio.

Kim explained the necessity for versatility in their in-house studios, which drives the partnership model with other studios. Citing the requirement to launch at least two titles annually, Neowiz is actively seeking partnerships with creative external teams like Wolfeye and Zakazane, who share their strategic vision.

Looking globally, Neowiz is keen on expanding partnerships, particularly with companies in China, acknowledging the emergence of noteworthy developers in that region.

In 2023, Neowiz invested $17 million in Poland's Blank Game Studios. Subsequently, they entered into an $8 million publishing deal with Polish firm Zakazane in November 2024 and secured a collaboration with WolfEye in early 2025. They also signed a partnership with Shanghai-based Shadowlight for its inaugural game, Kill the Shadow.

Since its launch in September 2023, Lies of P has amassed a player base of over seven million and has surpassed three million copies sold.