Imagine a world where the boundaries of gaming are redefined by artificial intelligence, where every player interaction, storyline, and visual is shaped by cutting-edge technology that learns and adapts in real-time. This isn’t just a distant dream—it’s the mission driving KRAFTON, Inc., a Seoul-based gaming powerhouse. On December 5, 2025, the company announced the launch of applications for the fourth batch of its highly coveted AI Fellowship Program. Designed to scout and nurture the brightest undergraduate minds in AI, this initiative offers a rare chance to dive into groundbreaking research. With only five spots available for the 2026 cohort, the stakes are high, but so are the rewards. From substantial scholarships to mentorship by top AI experts, this program is a launchpad for the next generation of tech innovators. Let’s explore what makes this fellowship a game-changer and how it’s shaping the future of AI in gaming.
Unpacking the Fellowship Opportunity
A Gateway to AI Excellence
Stepping into the realm of AI with a company like KRAFTON offers an unparalleled edge for aspiring tech leaders. The fellowship targets undergraduate students globally, including foreign nationals studying in Korea, who are eager to push the boundaries of artificial intelligence. The multi-stage selection process is no walk in the park—it begins with application screening, moves through rigorous online and offline tests, and culminates in a high-stakes final interview. These steps are meticulously crafted to assess both theoretical knowledge and practical skills, ensuring only the most capable minds advance. Applications are open from December 5 to 22, and with just five fellows chosen, the competition is fierce. However, for those selected, the journey promises to be transformative, blending academic rigor with real-world challenges in a way few programs can match. This isn’t just about earning a title; it’s about building a foundation for a career at the forefront of technology.
Rewards That Redefine Ambition
Beyond the prestige of being selected, the tangible benefits of this fellowship are nothing short of remarkable. Successful candidates will join the KRAFTON AI Research Internship from June to August 2026, immersing themselves in innovative projects under the guidance of renowned AI professors and in-house researchers. The financial support is equally impressive—a KRW 10 million scholarship and a stipend during the internship that rivals full-time employment compensation. Moreover, if a fellow’s research leads to a paper accepted at top-tier machine learning conferences like NeurIPS, ICML, or ICLR, with the fellow as the first or co-first author, KRAFTON provides additional funding for conference registration and travel. This level of support underscores the company’s commitment to not just fostering talent but celebrating and amplifying their achievements on a global stage. It’s a holistic package designed to empower young innovators to focus on what truly matters—creating impactful work without financial barriers.
The Bigger Picture of AI Innovation
Driving Gaming Forward with AI
At the heart of KRAFTON’s vision lies a deep commitment to revolutionizing gaming through artificial intelligence. Since establishing its AI division in 2022, the company has focused on five pivotal areas: Language Models, Multi-modal Learning, Reinforcement Learning, Generative AI, and Data-centric AI. These aren’t just buzzwords; they represent targeted efforts to enhance player experiences and streamline game development. From crafting more immersive narratives to optimizing gameplay mechanics, the potential applications are vast. In just the current year alone, KRAFTON AI has published 15 papers at leading conferences, showcasing its global research prowess. This dedication to innovation sets the stage for fellows to contribute to meaningful advancements. Participating in this program means being part of a movement that’s redefining an industry, where every line of code or research insight could shape how millions engage with games.
Proven Impact Through Past Successes
The track record of the fellowship speaks volumes about its effectiveness in nurturing talent. Over the past three batches, fellows have produced nine research papers, with six published at prestigious conferences such as ICML and ICLR. A standout achievement came from Sunwoo Kim, a second-batch fellow, whose paper earned the coveted ICLR Spotlight distinction, placing it among the top 5% of submissions for its groundbreaking approach. Similarly, Junhyuck Kim from the first batch made waves with a first-author paper at ICML. These accomplishments aren’t just individual triumphs; they reflect the program’s ability to bridge theoretical AI concepts with practical, industry-shaping outcomes. For aspiring applicants, these stories are a testament to the mentorship and resources provided, offering a glimpse into what’s possible when raw talent meets structured opportunity. It’s clear that this initiative isn’t just about learning—it’s about leaving a mark on the global AI landscape.
Charting the Path Ahead
A Legacy of Nurturing Talent
Looking back, the KRAFTON AI Fellowship Program carved a niche as a beacon for undergraduate AI enthusiasts, blending rigorous research with hands-on experience. Past cohorts demonstrated that dedication and guidance could transform ambitious students into published researchers, with their work gaining recognition at some of the most esteemed platforms in the field. The program’s emphasis on mentorship from leading minds in AI and gaming ensured that each fellow’s journey was both challenging and rewarding. Stories of achievement, like those of fellows whose papers redefined industry benchmarks, highlighted how this initiative consistently punched above its weight. It wasn’t merely a stepping stone; it became a catalyst for careers that influenced how technology intersected with entertainment. The legacy of those early batches set a high bar for what future fellows could aspire to achieve.
Steps to Shape the Future
As the application window for the 2026 cohort closes on December 22, potential candidates are encouraged to seize this moment to become part of something transformative. Digging into the specifics on KRAFTON’s official website can provide clarity on the process and expectations, ensuring a well-prepared submission. Beyond applying, it’s worth considering how to stand out—showcasing a genuine passion for AI through past projects or a clear vision for its role in gaming could make a difference. For those selected, the focus should shift to maximizing the internship experience, from absorbing insights from mentors to aiming for research that resonates globally. Even for those not chosen, engaging with AI communities or seeking similar opportunities can keep the momentum alive. The road ahead in AI and gaming is brimming with potential, and initiatives like this fellowship are paving the way for young minds to lead that charge with innovation and grit.
