Nexon Group, the pioneer of interactive entertainment software and the world leader in online games, announced the appointment of Daniel S. Kim to serve as chief executive officer for Nexon America, the North American publishing arm for Nexon Group. Kim will oversee the day-to-day management and operations of Nexon America. His appointment is effective immediately.

“The growth of free-to-play gaming in North America is hitting its stride and Daniel is an ideal candidate to lead Nexon America in a competitive marketplace,” said S.W. Choi, global chief executive officer for Nexon Group. “He is a proven leader in our company, and understands how Nexon can effectively grow as a brand and a business in North America.”

“Nexon emerged as an innovator in the gaming industry by mapping its own direction, and I believe in maintaining this spirit as CEO,” said Kim. “There’s great potential in this company, and what we can deliver to the entertainment marketplace in North America. Nexon pioneered the free-to-play model in North America, and I’m thrilled to join Nexon America to continue to lead the market with more high quality, live gaming experiences for our users.”

Prior to his appointment, Kim was executive vice president for Nexon Group’s global content strategy division in Korea, working closely with Nexon America. During his time at Nexon Group, Kim spearheaded global branding strategy and user experience research.

Prior to joining Nexon in November of 2006, Kim served as a vice president in charge of Asia-Pacific business development for IDEO, a leading firm in innovation and design. Kim served as senior product design engineer for Handspring, Inc., and managed research, design, development and production of cutting-edge handheld digital devices. He also served as the director of design and user experience for DoDots, Inc.

Kim earned a Master of Science in Product Design and Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from Stanford University.