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Writer's pictureThe Dr.K

Is it time for Korean Game Makers to target the Middle Eastern Market?

Korean games have taken the global stage by storm, and their popularity in the Middle Eastern market is a testament to their widespread appeal. According to the 2023 survey by the Korea Creative Content Agency (Kocca), Middle Eastern users have shown remarkable enthusiasm for Korean games, surpassing other regions in both playtime and expenditure. This surge is not just a fleeting trend but a significant cultural and economic development.


bar graph of users time playing games in the middle east
Users' Playing Time in the Middle East

Market Penetration and Consumer Engagement

The survey, which included over 6,800 users aged 15 and above from 16 countries, revealed that Middle Eastern users, particularly those from Qatar and the United Arab Emirates (UAE), have the highest average monthly spending on Korean games. Qatari users spent an average of $76.21 per month, while those in the UAE spent $68.98, both figures significantly higher than the global average of $38.51.


In terms of time spent, users in India and Egypt lead the chart, dedicating an average of 172.28 and 170.07 minutes respectively on weekdays to playing Korean games. This is in contrast to the global average of around 107.99 minutes for console games, 111.86 minutes for mobile games, and 102.01 minutes for PC and online games.


Cultural Engagement

The cultural integration of Korean games in the Middle Eastern market is particularly evident during Ramadan, where 60 percent of users in Egypt and 55 percent in Saudi Arabia reported increased gaming activity. The appeal of massively multiplayer online role-playing games (MMORPGs) like Black Desert and role-playing and sports games indicates a strong alignment with the entertainment preferences of Middle Eastern gamers.


Popular Titles and Preferences

Among PC and online game players, Black Desert emerged as the top choice in countries like Japan, Pakistan, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE. Meanwhile, Ragnarok and PlayerUnknown's Battlegrounds (PUBG) dominated in other regions, highlighting a diverse yet strong preference for Korean games. PUBG Mobile also topped the charts in the US, India, and Pakistan, showcasing the global footprint of Korean mobile games.


Economic Impact

The economic implications of this trend are significant. The high spending rates in the Middle Eastern market indicate a robust revenue stream for Korean game developers. This financial success can lead to more targeted marketing and localized content, further strengthening the presence of Korean games in the region.


Key Takeaways

1. High Engagement and Spending: Middle Eastern users, especially in Qatar and UAE, spend significantly more on Korean games compared to the global average.


2. Cultural Integration: Increased gaming activity during Ramadan and the popularity of specific genres highlight the cultural resonance of Korean games in the Middle East.


3. Popular Titles: Games like Black Desert, Ragnarok, and PUBG dominate the charts, reflecting diverse gaming preferences.


4. Economic Opportunities: The substantial revenue from the Middle Eastern market underscores the economic potential for Korean game developers to expand and innovate.


This trend signifies not only a growing market for Korean games but also a deeper cultural connection and economic opportunity in the Middle Eastern region. For more information on the Korean market or looking global, contact us today!


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