The Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism and the Korea Creative Content Agency (KOCCA) released the '2025 Overseas Korean Game User Survey' report on the 11th, summarizing trends in the consumption of Korean games in overseas markets. The survey analyzed 10,000 respondents across 10 major export regions, including China, the US, and Japan, to examine service usage characteristics, changes in play volume, and preferences.

According to the report, 58.2% of overseas users were aware that the games they play are Korean, and 61.2% of them responded that the 'Made in Korea' label had a positive impact on their choice. This positive sentiment was particularly high in Vietnam, the UAE, and India, ranging from 70% to 80%. While overseas users cited aesthetics—such as graphics, characters, and narrative—as key factors in choosing Korean games, they identified fatigue from growth and reinforcement structures as a primary barrier to continued play.

The report confirmed that the 'PUBG' series, which has established itself as a global IP, was the most played Korean game overseas. Other notable titles included 'Crossfire' in China, India, Vietnam, and Brazil; 'THE FINALS' in the US and UAE; and 'MapleStory' in Japan and Taiwan. High engagement rates were also consistently maintained for titles such as 'Cookie Run: Puzzle World', 'Pokopoko', 'KartRider: Drift', 'Stellar Blade', and 'Lies of P'.

Play preferences showed distinct regional differences. Multiplayer games were preferred in China, India, Vietnam, and the UAE, while single-player experiences were relatively more popular in Japan, the US, Brazil, and France. The survey also analyzed various usage characteristics, including competitive tendencies, preferences for new versus existing games, single versus multi-game usage patterns, and monetization habits. These statistics highlight that since the consumption of Korean games varies significantly based on national culture and usage environments, region-specific game design and operational strategies are essential for global market success.

Yoo Hyun-seok, Acting President of KOCCA, stated, "Korean games have now become a cultural experience in many parts of the world, and the influence of K-content is further expanding, centered on high-quality graphics and compelling world-building." He added, "KOCCA will continue to closely analyze demand and churn factors by country to establish a foundation for our companies to grow, and we will actively reflect the feedback of overseas users in our industry policies and support programs."

The 2025 Overseas Korean Game User Survey report is available for anyone to view on the KOCCA website.