February 28, 2006 - Korean publisher Webzen announced today it has signed a new "next-gen" MMO title from Red 5 Studios, a developer founded by former members of Blizzard's World of Warcraft team. The new game is in initial development stages, with details still under wraps.

Red 5 Studios' founders include World of Warcraft Team Lead Mark Kern, Art Director William Petras, and Online Director for Asia Taewon Yoon. The studio's team includes veterans of Diablo II, StarCraft, and Warcraft III.

"Webzen offers the optimal environment for developing games, with its world-class technology and overall expertise in online game entertainment," said Kern, who serves as Red 5's President and CEO. "Webzen is becoming a huge force in the global online games marketplace. Their commitment and determination partnered with our unique game concept is a winning combination for a blockbuster title."

Red 5 Studios opened shop in Orange County, California last year, focusing on massively-multiplayer online titles. We'll be back with more on the company's first project as details emerge.