Jeonghee “JJ” Jin: Leading the Charge for NC America
Jeonghee “JJ” Jin has been a pivotal figure in enhancing the growth trajectory of Pearl Abyss in North America, directing its operations as head of Pearl Abyss America for over six years.
Now at the helm of NC America as CEO, Jin is orchestrating an ambitious expansion within NCSoft, even amidst one of the most significant contractions in the gaming sector’s history.
A Vision for Expansion
In an exclusive dialogue with GamesBeat, Jin laid out her strategic vision to amplify the company’s game business. Recently, NCSoft has invested in multiple studios across Korea and Europe. She is also establishing a new office in Irvine, California, while exploring innovative genres beyond traditional MMORPGs—an example being their latest release that falls under the “idle MMO” classification. Her insights drawn from both Eastern and Western markets are steering this expansion into uncharted territories.
The Foundations of Her Career
Beginning her journey with Pearl Abyss back in February 2018 as their first U.S. employee, Jin spearheaded efforts to establish Pearl Abyss America, officially launching that division just months later. Under her leadership, it flourished to encompass around 85 team members.
Korean gaming enterprises rank among the largest globally and have significantly influenced international markets; however, they’ve faced difficulties navigating publishing and development processes within Western regions.
“I genuinely believe that fostering local business presence is crucial,” noted Jin. ”Building a team that resonates with local communities is advantageous due to market variances.” She emphasized that today’s landscape demands more than just releasing products; persistent support for live service games is essential. “It’s vital we maintain ongoing engagement with our players’ needs,” she added.
The Role of Community Engagement
Cultivating meaningful events tailored for local communities occupies considerable attention at NCSoft under her guidance.
“It’s increasingly important now more than ever to have not only a capable local team but also a global perspective that truly understands regional audiences,” said Jin. “Making decisions without solid groundwork can lead to notable missteps; hence having an adept team dedicated to live production and community engagement remains paramount.”
Navigating Through History: The Birth of NCSoft
Founded in 1997 in South Korea as an online game developer, NCSoft has birthed some landmark MMORPG franchises within the gaming industry.
This prominent studio brought forth its inaugural title Lineage back in 1998 and has since evolved into one of today’s major global publishers according to Jin’s insights: “NCSoft stands out uniquely as one among pioneers creating MMO games.” Their products have amassed over 200 million registered users worldwide—with more than half attributed specifically to those engaged with the Lineage franchise alone—all while ArenaNet operates under its ownership umbrella alongside NC America since its establishment began early April 2023.
Aspirations Toward Growth
“At present our goal extends towards nurturing additional pipelines involving diverse titles from independent developers we’ve invested resources into or potentially other third-party releases,” highlighted by Jin excitedly about expanding horizons as far greater prospects await under their banner – referring elegantly towards recruiting dimensions akin toward western environments dubbed by colleagues across various platforms previously renowned throughout commercial spaces previously unexplored or undiscovered priorly noticed pre-exploration stages initiated enthusiastically externally implored methods- thoughtfully expressed regarding acquisitions venture opportunities progressed recently justified cross-sectional understandings subsequently validated relative conventions upheld acutely determined momentum encapsulated distinctly outlined efficacious advancement paths warranted developing upon championed grounds respectably taking shape fundamentally structured designed revolutions pursued collaboratively uplift future landscapes open minded pursuit having earnest intentions retained earnestly continual evolution cascaded judgments consistently necessitated illuminating endeavors dignified distinguished recognition persisting emphasis entertained realities adjusting gracefully exposed.”
The Evolution of Blade & Soul Neo: NCSoft’s Ambitious Vision
Investment in Innovative Gaming Studios
NCSoft has recently made noteworthy strides by investing in Mistil Games, a South Korean studio focused on developing a new shooting game. This move is part of the company’s broader strategy, which includes acquiring global publishing rights for the title and also supporting Virtual Alchemy, another studio located in Europe.
Revitalizing Classic MMORPGs
In addition to new projects, NC America is dedicated to promoting its established MMORPG franchises such as Blade & Soul, Aion, and Lineage. According to Jin from NCSoft, these titles have maintained robust communities despite being around for years.
Announcing Blade & Soul Neo
Less than ten years after the original release, NCSoft announced the arrival of Blade & Soul Neo—a remastered edition aimed at elevating player experience. Currently available in South Korea and soon reaching PC gamers across North America and Europe, this revamped version signals a fresh commitment to engaging longstanding fans.
Enhancements and Future Projects
Jin expressed enthusiasm about comprehensive upgrades across visuals, combat mechanics, narratives—essentially every facet of the original game has been reimagined for today’s audience. “We’re also exploring additional titles rooted in our popular MMO franchises,” she pointed out confidently. “Our goal is to cater to Western gamers who fondly remember these expansive worlds.”
Expanding Workforce with Purpose
With approximately 35 employees spanning North America and Europe—including a significant presence in Irvine, California—NC America aims for strategic growth rather than rapid expansion. Jin conveyed their intent: “We’re focusing on smaller projects initially but are actively hiring talent essential for production management and strategic marketing.”
Seeking Passionate Gamers
The recruitment strategy prioritizes candidates who not only possess gaming expertise but also share an intrinsic passion for gaming culture. Regular discussions with colleagues at headquarters help Jin align her vision with those working on upcoming games.
Understanding Diverse Markets
Recognizing that today’s gaming landscape consists of varied markets rather than a monolithic one is crucial; teams must grasp what specific enjoyment their games provide while being responsive to regional expectations.
Tackling Industry Challenges
Reflecting upon recent layoffs within the gaming sector over the past two-and-a-half years—including challenges faced by NCSoft—it’s evident that many talented individuals have endured tough transitions. Drawing from nearly two decades of industry experience, Jin believes eventual recovery lies ahead: “. . . History suggests we can bounce back within three to five years,” she noted optimistically.
Organizational Development Initiatives
At NCSoft specifically, there has been an emphasis on refining strategies that bolster global publishing capabilities amid organizational transformations striving toward improvement.
“I joined because I see us preparing ourselves intelligently,” Jin remarked enthusiastically about her decision to be part of this emerging narrative at NCSoft.
Building an Inclusive Culture
Having immersed herself in MMOs from childhood until relocating to the U.S., where she’s spent 17 contributing years thus far—it stands clear where her passions lie: “My dream involves fostering a welcoming environment where fellow enthusiasts can delve into their creations while nurturing vibrant communities.”
Stay tuned as more updates regarding Blade & Soul Neo unfold alongside initiatives transforming how developer-publisher dynamics operate within increasingly interconnected global markets!
