Naver Webtoon has launched 'byUs,' an artificial intelligence (AI) story chat service that lets users create new stories by conversing with characters based on webtoon intellectual property (IP) approved by the original authors.
Naver Webtoon said Monday that it is introducing byUs through the "More" menu within its app. byUs is a service that allows users to become the protagonist of a story based on original IP and develop their own narrative. Because it uses only official IP approved by the original authors, it respects the appeal and worldview of the original works, while allowing users to interact with characters and build stories in a highly immersive environment.
byUs offers two types of content experiences based on webtoon IP: original stories and fan stories. Original stories are content in which users develop a new narrative by conversing with characters, starting from an intro constructed based on the original work's worldview and character settings. Fan stories are content that allows users to enjoy unique creative stories by setting up new situations and relationships based on the original work's characters.
byUs also introduces features that help users develop stories more richly and enhance immersion. Representative features include "Recommended Replies" and "Autoplay" to help smooth conversation flow, "Snapshot" that provides situation-appropriate images, and "Special Cut" that sequentially provides reward-style images according to affinity levels.
Naver Webtoon plans to expand its IP lineup, starting with the webtoon "Job Change Log" and focusing on works with strong fandoms. Kim Shin-hyung, head of IP business at Naver Webtoon, said, "Webtoons are moving beyond content that is 'watched' into an 'interactive' realm where fans directly participate in and expand the worldview. Through byUs, we will create a virtuous cycle that leads users to newly discover the appeal of original works, and to deeper attachment to IP and strengthened lifecycles."
Naver Webtoon previously operated "Character Chat," which allows users to have everyday conversations and interactions with characters, since 2024, achieving results in increased consumption of original webtoons.
