An interview celebrating the 100th session of KLT, KRAFTON’s flagship communication program
Launched in September 2015, KLT (KRAFTON Live Talk) has become the central hub for KRAFTON’s diverse workforce, fostering open discussions between members and the management on both significant milestones and everyday occurrences. Using Zoom to connect KRAFTON members globally, it is one of the programs embodying the company’s genuine commitment to communication and corporate culture.
In January 2024, KLT marked its 100th session. We delved into the behind-the-scenes narratives of KLT, uncovering how the active involvement of members shaped it into a genuine communication hub, along with the dedicated endeavors of leadership to uphold transparent communication. Our interview with the Culture team, steadfast contributors to KLT’s success, provided insights into KLT’s stories and a deeper exploration of KRAFTON’s company culture.
Hello. Could you please introduce yourself?
(Soo-chun) My name is Soo-chun, and I’ve been part of the KRAFTON journey from my 20s to my 40s. Starting in 2009 with the People team, I handled various HR tasks. In 2017, I transitioned to the Culture team, taking charge of member communication-related responsibilities.
(Yeon-sik) I joined PUBG STUDIOS in May 2018 before becoming part of the KRAFTON Culture team in August 2020. Currently, I oversee member interviews and AHM. * All-Hands-Meetings (AHM): Monthly town hall meetings organized by PUBG STUDIOS.
(Jin-soo) I joined the Culture team in July 2020 after initially handling recruitment tasks at KRAFTON since September 2016. * Interested in his previous interview from his time in HR? (Link)
(Hyun-joo) I’ve been with the Culture team since November 2019, and it truly feels like a “family” to me. My responsibilities include tasks like long-term service awards and new hire orientation.
Could you briefly introduce what KLT is, especially since we’re celebrating its 100th episode?
(Jin-soo) KLT is where management and members gather to share vital news and information about the company. It’s a space for free-flowing questions and answers, covering everything from game projects to organizational changes and the company’s overall direction.
So, Soo-chun, were you part of KLT from its inception in 2009? Also, what led to the start of KLT?
(Soo-chun) That’s right. At that time, I was briefly working in another team. I returned to the People team and took charge from the 7th session onwards. Even in the early days, KRAFTON, formerly Bluehole Studio, placed a high value on communication among members. As the company expanded, KLT (originally BLT) was initiated by leadership to facilitate more effective conversations with all members.
A global company-wide communication program involving around 3000 members from 10 countries
About how many members attend KLT in total? Are international members included?
(Yeon-sik) We target around 3000 members globally, spanning countries like China, Japan, Thailand, Indonesia, Vietnam, Taiwan, Turkey, Canada, the USA, India, the Netherlands, and Sweden. This includes our overseas offices and creative studios. Coordinating different time zones can be a challenge, but we aim for 10 AM, which works for the majority. Notably, Japan, China, and North America have the highest viewership.
Impressive! Such a diverse audience for a global company! How do you choose topics, especially considering the diverse international audience?
(Jin-soo) Company direction is a must-know for everyone, but nailing down topics that resonate with everyone can be a bit tricky. However, I believe it’s important to be aware and participate in what the company values, even if it’s not directly related to your own tasks.
KRAFTON Live Talk: A representative program reflecting KRAFTON’s Communication Culture, celebrating 100 sessions consistently held every month from 2015 to 2023
Reflecting on the 100th session of KLT as part of the planning team, what are your thoughts?
(Soo-chun) After being part of KLT for almost eight years, reaching the 100th session feels like a trip down memory lane. From the early days without proper chairs to witnessing the evolution of KRAFTON and KLT, it’s a real “wow” moment.
The fact that we didn’t pause for 100 sessions speaks volumes about the sincerity of the leadership and the members. It’s become the flagship event representing KRAFTON, and our team takes pride in being part of it. * The first KLT session took place in September 2015 under the theme “Bluehole’s Biggest Change, Mobile Production Alliance’s Debut.”
Key Features of KLT: Vibrant live broadcasts, translation for international members, and live Q&A sessions featuring real names where every question is answered.
Looking back at KLT from the first to the 100th session, what were the major changes?
(Soo-chun) There have been significant changes, but I think a couple of them really stand out for our members.
The first one was when we introduced live broadcasts and interpretation. The sessions were held in the company lounge, making it tough for distant members to join physically. But, we switched to live broadcasts from the 54th session in March 2020, allowing members from different regions and overseas to be part of it. Then, we introduced live interpretation from the 58th session in June 2020. That was a turning point, making it a real-time global communication program.
The other one was the introduction of real-name Q&A. While some questions were traditionally raised at the venue, the majority came in anonymously through an app. Since the 58th session, we’ve been accepting app questions with real names. The aim was to grasp the full background and context of questions, allowing us to provide more detailed answers. I was concerned about a passive atmosphere, but members embraced real-name communication. Now, I’m glad to see that the culture of asking questions with real names is established and well-received. By the way, we received as many as 1186 questions up to the 100th session.
The expertise of the Culture Team in wholeheartedly preparing for KLT every month and the “Feedback Group” for transparent communication
How is the preparation process for KLT?
(Yeon-sik) It typically takes about a month and a half to prepare for one session of KLT. The preparation takes about a month and a half. It starts with selecting the presentation topic, followed by on-site preparations, and sharing Q&A transcripts and videos on the bulletin board afterward. Particularly before or after a significant presentation, we collect feedback from members. Prior to important presentations, we gather opinions to share with the presenter. Sometimes, we receive input from around 70 to 80 members. This guides us in making the presentation relatable and understandable all the way to the final translation. The preparation is more extensive than you might think. (Laughs)
I didn’t realize so much effort went into it. The way I remember it, the Culture Team is always buzzing with activity at the venue. Could you talk about what you do during the sessions?
(Hyun-joo) I monitor the live broadcasting on Zoom to ensure there are no sound issues for interpreters and coordinate to prevent any inconveniences for members.
(Jin-soo) I handle on-site instructions as the producer, adjusting camera positions and checking overall timing.
(Yeon-sik) I assist the moderator, passing on details from producer Jin-soo and stepping in if needed.
(Soo-chun) I control the PC with flashy gestures, managing screen transitions for the presentation and the Slido tool for live Q&A. It might not seem like a big deal, but timing is crucial! (A big emphasis!)
Managing KLT must involve navigating through unexpected situations. Could you share your experience?
(Soo-chun) During a conversation about an overseas project, an on-site producer went on stage. It was unplanned. Unlike Zoom interpretation, on-site interpretation requires different systems and equipment to be set up in advance. The operations team was in a bit of a panic. But having done around 100 sessions, everyone was well-trained for emergencies. So, we were able to respond quickly on-site without much difficulty. (Laughs)
After going through 100 sessions, what is the most memorable KLT session?
(Hyeon-joo) I vividly recall the Chairman’s presentation in March 2020. It was the first time we had to prepare for live streaming due to COVID-19. Since we weren’t familiar with the equipment and platform for live streaming, we spent a lot of time on preparation and rehearsals. The fact that the Chairman took charge of the first-ever live-streamed KLT presentation made it even more nerve-wracking so that memory stands out.
The beginning of communication and a culture open to honest questions
During the Q&A session, you get a wide range of questions. Could you share one that stands out in your memory?
(Yeon-sik) A lot of members have burning questions, but when it comes to asking top management in person during KLT with real names, there are some touchy topics that feel a bit awkward. There was someone brave enough to openly ask bold questions. At that time, a member of the leadership mentioned, “The fact that such candid questions are being asked itself proves the maturity of the question level and culture in KLT.” It was a scene that showcased KRAFTON’s transparent communication culture, and it remains the most memorable for me.
More stories to be continued in Part 2! (Link)
