[Bu-aeri's Game Dictionary] Even the 3N Held Their Breath Due to 'COVID-19'

NCSoft Headquarters

[Asia Economy Reporter Buaeri] The gaming industry, which had been working tirelessly amid the spread of the novel coronavirus infection (COVID-19), also experienced a quiet week. Major game companies simultaneously shifted to a 'work-from-home system.' This is an extraordinary measure to protect employees from COVID-19.

NCSoft implemented paid special leave for all employees for three days from the 27th to the 2nd of next month. Pregnant employees were granted an additional 20 days of paid special leave. After the leave, the company plans to extend flexible working hours from 7 a.m. to 10 a.m. to 7 a.m. to 11 a.m. to minimize contact on public transportation.

Nexon also entered an emergency system. From the 27th to the 2nd of next month, all employees except the minimum personnel required for on-site work switched to work-from-home. There is also a possibility of further extension. Nexon stated, "We will closely monitor the rapidly changing infection situation and respond accordingly."

Netmarble also transitioned to a work-from-home system during the same period. Netmarble said, "To prevent the spread of COVID-19, except for a small number of essential personnel, the entire Netmarble company will work from home." Decisions on responses after working from home will be made through the COVID-19 task force (TF).

In addition, Pearl Abyss, NHN, Gamevil, and Com2uS have also started working from home, and Smilegate implemented 'paid special leave' from the 2nd to the 6th of next month. Each team autonomously divides into groups and takes three days off.

Generous donations from the gaming industry also attracted attention. NCSoft donated 2 billion won to the Hope Bridge Korea Disaster Relief Association for COVID-19 prevention and damage recovery. Nexon also donated 2 billion won to the Korean Red Cross. Netmarble, along with its subsidiary Coway, donated 1 billion won each, totaling 2 billion won, to the Korea Disaster Relief Association. Kim Taek-jin, CEO of NCSoft, said, "We hope this helps those affected by COVID-19 and the medical staff who are devotedly working."