NCSOFT, the South Korean gaming titan, has announced a significant restructuring of its leadership across its global offices as part of its broader strategy to enhance its global presence. In a move that signals a departure from its traditional family-run management structure, the company has brought in seasoned industry expert Jin Jeong-hee to lead its operations in North America.
Jin Jeong-hee, who previously held executive positions at prominent Korean gaming companies such as Kakao Games and Pearl Abyss, has been named the new CEO of NC America. With over 15 years of experience in game publishing and international business, Jin is expected to play a key role in expanding NCSOFT’s footprint in the North American market.
In addition to the changes in the U.S., NCSOFT has appointed Lim Won-ki, the company’s current Chief Business Management Officer, to oversee its operations in Japan and Taiwan. The overall management of NC West, which includes both NC America and NC Europe, will now be under the leadership of NCSOFT’s co-CEO, Park Byung-moo.
These new appointments replace former executives Kim Taek-heon, who managed NC America, Japan, and Taiwan, and Yoon Song-yee, who led NC West. Notably, Kim Taek-heon is the younger brother of NCSOFT’s founder, Kim Taek-jin, while Yoon Song-yee is the founder’s wife. Their departure from these key roles marks a significant shift for the company, which has historically been run by the Kim family.
Earlier this year, both Kim and Yoon stepped back from their roles as Chief Publishing Officer and Chief Strategy Officer, respectively, to focus on overseeing NCSOFT’s international divisions. The company has emphasized that these changes are aimed at driving growth and enhancing its global capabilities, with a renewed focus on empowering its regional offices.
Commenting on her new role, Jin Jeong-hee said, “I am delighted to join NCSOFT’s global growth strategy,” she said. “I will do my utmost to ensure that NCSOFT’s game development capabilities and values are more widely recognized on the global stage and to help the company reach new heights.”