Bident Invests in VIV Studios... Anticipates Synergy in Metaverse and NFT

[Asia Economy Reporter Hyungsoo Park] Bident is expanding its metaverse ecosystem in earnest by acquiring shares of VIV Studios.

Bident announced on the 21st that it will invest 25 billion KRW to secure a 13.49% stake in VIV Studios, becoming the second largest shareholder.

VIV Studios is a company that creates virtual humans using complex technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), real-time augmented reality (AR), and cutting-edge extended reality (XR). It possesses technologies in metaverse, visual effects (VFX), and AI virtual human visualization.

VIV Studios, a visual AI-based metaverse content production company, realized a daughter who passed away through VR technology in the MBC human documentary "I Met You." It produced a hologram of BTS member Suga, who was unable to attend due to injury during a BTS concert. On the day of the 20th presidential election vote count, JTBC showcased AI virtual human technology.

Bident, the single largest shareholder of cryptocurrency exchange operator Bithumb, is strengthening its competitiveness in metaverse service content starting with its investment in VIV Studios. VIV Studios has been recognized for its virtual convergence technology (XR) capabilities and has collaborated with HYBE, SK Telecom, and others.

Bident applies VIV Studios’ real-time 3D production technology and VFX technology to new business areas operated by its affiliates Bucket Studio and Inbiogen. In December last year, Bucket Studio launched "Bithumb Live," combining metaverse, NFT, blockchain, and live commerce, by investing a total of 12 billion KRW together with domestic virtual asset exchange Bithumb.

A Bident official emphasized, "VIV Studios, whose technological capabilities have already been verified in overseas markets, has also received investment proposals from large corporations," adding, "The opportunity for Bident to invest in VIV Studios was made with synergy effects in mind."