Smilegate announced on the 3rd that it has been re-designated as a self-rating operator, part of its support initiatives for the indie ecosystem and creators, and will maintain the qualification for the next five years.

Since obtaining the self-rating operator qualification in 2023, Smilegate has steadily operated the related system as a platform operator, and with this renewal it will maintain the same qualification through March 2, 2031.

The self-rating operator system allows businesses that meet certain requirements to classify the ratings of game content directly. Building on this, Smilegate has, through its global game platform STOVE, more quickly introduced indie games from Korea and abroad to the domestic market, and has efficiently managed the rating-classification procedures so that developers and publishers can prepare their services in line with their business schedules.

Smilegate plans to use this re-designation as an opportunity to further solidify its platform capabilities. Centered on STOVE, it will support the rollout of services by developers and publishers and strengthen cooperation across distribution and operations. While continuously introducing overseas indie games that are difficult to access in Korea, it will also continue to help domestic creators’ works secure competitiveness in the market.

Meanwhile, games with the ‘Not for Youth’ rating must, under current law, undergo review by the Game Rating and Administration Committee and the Game Content Rating Board. Smilegate also supports the entire review process for developers who wish to release under that rating, providing guidance on the statutory review procedures.