Kakao, SM Entertainment to Launch Idol-Themed Video Game ‘SM GAME STATION’

Earlier this month, Kakao Games and SM Entertainment issued a joint statement announcing the launch of a new mobile game titled SM GAME STATION. The announcement was made during a recent signing ceremony at Kakao’s headquarters in Seongsu-dong, Seoul. The ceremony was attended by SM Entertainment CEO Jang Cheol-hyuk and six representatives from Kakao Games, including CEO Han Sang-woo and Business Division Head Lim Young-jun.

Sources say SM GAME STATION will be a mobile collection game where players can “manage” top global K-pop artists from SM Entertainment. The game will transform the artists’ real activities and schedules into fun, engaging mini-games that allow players to interact with their favorite idols. This project is more than a venture into new digital realms—it’s also an opportunity to provide fans worldwide with innovative ways to enjoy their favorite artists’ content.

One of the unique features of the game is its digital photocard system. Players will be able to collect cards featuring the likenesses and performance outfits of SM’s artists. These cards can be customized with parts that highlight individual characteristics of each idol, allowing for a deeply personal and interactive experience. The game also plans to incorporate real-time activities, such as special events to celebrate idols’ birthdays and debut anniversaries, tying the game closely to the artists’ real lives.

[오딘: 발할라 라이징] 공식 인게임 트레일러 영상_Full ver.

The people behind SM GAME STATION

Metabora is leading the development of SM GAME STATION. Kakao Games handles global publishing and services, while SM Entertainment’s contribution to the process is the vast IP (intellectual property) of its idol groups. Kakao Games has a successful track record when it comes to launching video games, as proven by the release of ODIN: Valhalla Rising and Uma Musume Pretty Derby, so it’s expected to do the same when introducing SM’s artist IPs to a broader audience. The game is slated for a global release in the latter half of the year, with both companies expressing their excitement about providing a novel entertainment experience that combines their strengths in content creation and digital innovation.

Jang Cheol-hyuk, CEO of SM Entertainment, commented on the collaboration, stating, “I am pleased to offer fans of SM a variety of content consumption opportunities and plan to attempt more content mixing within the Kakao Group in the future.” 

Meanwhile, Han Sang-woo, CEO of Kakao Games, added, “We plan to provide a new entertainment experience in the global digital content market by combining our service and development capabilities with the strong content power of SM Entertainment.” – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Kakao Games and SM Entertainment have something very special in store for gamers. Source: KBS.