Nexon Appoints Embark Studios CEO Patrick Söderlund as Executive Chairman
Games

Nexon Appoints Embark Studios CEO Patrick Söderlund as Executive Chairman

authorBy Kim Swift
DateFeb 20, 2026
Read time2 min

Patrick Söderlund, the visionary leader behind Embark Studios and the critically acclaimed game Arc Raiders, has been elevated to a pivotal role as the new Executive Chairman of Nexon. This strategic appointment grants Söderlund comprehensive authority over Nexon's long-term vision, global creative strategies, and game development initiatives. His continued leadership at Embark Studios underscores Nexon's commitment to fostering innovation and leveraging his proven track record in the gaming industry.

Söderlund's distinguished career includes significant executive positions at prominent gaming companies like DICE and Electronic Arts, where he contributed to numerous successful titles and shaped creative directions. His journey from co-founding Refraction Games, which was later acquired by DICE, to leading Embark Studios, acquired by Nexon in 2021, highlights a consistent pattern of entrepreneurial success and strategic leadership in the dynamic world of video games. This latest promotion is seen as a natural progression, reflecting his deep understanding of game development and market trends.

In his new capacity, Söderlund will concentrate on enhancing Nexon's creative output, while current Nexon CEO Junghun Lee will manage business operations. Söderlund expressed his enthusiasm for the opportunity, emphasizing Nexon's strong assets, including talented personnel, iconic intellectual properties, a dedicated player base, and robust live service capabilities. He believes that a focused and disciplined approach, in alignment with Lee's vision, will unlock substantial growth for the company.

Nexon CEO Junghun Lee reiterated the importance of Söderlund's appointment, stating their shared commitment to transforming the company. Lee praised Söderlund's ability to establish successful studios, attract top industry talent, and deliver global blockbusters, which are precisely the qualities Nexon seeks to harness for its future growth. More insights into this transformative strategy are expected to be unveiled at Nexon's upcoming Capital Markets Briefing on March 31.

This move is poised to significantly impact Nexon's trajectory, signaling a renewed focus on creative excellence and strategic expansion within the competitive gaming landscape. Söderlund's extensive experience in developing and launching successful games, coupled with his strategic oversight, is expected to usher in a new era of innovation and market leadership for Nexon.

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