Smilegate named Asian ‘Social Innovator’ by The Economist

The logo of Smilegate's Hope Studio foundation

Game developer Smilegate said Friday that its Hope Studio foundation was named a “Social Innovator” by The Economist for its “Business of Doing Good in Asia” report, the only Korean organization recognized by the British news journal in this year's list.

The report, the second one published by The Economist to highlight Asian businesses’ corporate social responsibility (CSR) activities, recognizes companies deploying resources to generate long-term public benefit as part of their survival, legitimacy and business strategies.

Along with Smilegate, 12 companies and foundations were recognized. They include Tata Group of India, Ant Group of China, Microsoft Philanthropies representing the U.S. and Asian region, Ayala Corporation of the Philippines and Saraya of Japan.

The report selected Smilegate as one of Asia’s leading examples of expanding the scope and impact of corporate philanthropy by combining its resources, expertise and networks. It highlighted the company for its unique approach of “gamifying giving,” which made “donating more engaging as users can rise up through the ranks and achieve milestones through participation.”

From 2020 to 2024, Smilegate users and employees contributed more than $4.5 million in cumulative donations.

“We are truly delighted that Smilegate has been listed alongside some of the world’s leading companies in the report,” a company official said. “Going forward, Smilegate and Hope Studio will continue to promote impactful social contribution activities that allow participants to feel both joy and fulfillment.”