This analysis examines why Korean gamers choose and continue playing games using a motivational structure approach based on open-ended responses from 285 players. Eight motivation categories were identified through text analysis. Overall, social connection and progression drive play, while age-based differences reveal a shift from relationship-focused to growth- and immersion-driven motivations.

This analysis explores where Korean gamers primarily play and how platform choice shapes consumption. The market remains centered on PC and mobile, but preferences differ by age: younger players use platforms in parallel, mid-20s gamers concentrate on PC, and older users adopt a multi-platform mix. Platform choice strongly influences spending depth.

Analysis of Korean gamers shows MOBA leading at 70.5%, with Battle Royale, Casual, Sports/Racing, and RTS also highly played. Preferences differ by age: 18–22 favor fast, competitive genres; 23–27 engage in a balanced mix of competitive, strategic, and growth-based genres; and 28+ lean toward MMORPG, war strategy, and long-term progression titles. MOBA and Casual remain strong across all generations.

G-STAR 2025, though smaller in scale, revealed four clear shifts in Korea’s game industry: a return to PC and console platforms, rapid expansion of K-game IP, UX-centered playable demos, and stronger narrative-driven development. Despite reduced diversity and fewer indie booths, the event highlighted a future focused on deeper gameplay, cohesive IP ecosystems, and player-centered design.