AI Companion Startup DeepGrove Raises $1.1M Seed Round Led by Kakao Ventures

DeepGrove, an AI companion startup behind the interactive story game “Frontia,” has raised KRW 1.5 billion (approximately $1.1 million) in a seed round. The round was led by Kakao Ventures, with BonAngels Venture Partners joining as a co-investor, the company announced on July 1, 2026.

DeepGrove operates Frontia, an “AI cinematic play” story game in which the narrative unfolds based on the user’s choices and conversations. The game blends multiple media elements — including voice, images, and video — to deliver an interactive experience. Set across a range of worlds such as romance reality, disaster films, and fantasy adventure, Frontia lets each user experience a different storyline and ending.

Through its AI-powered production system, the “Frontia Studio Engine,” the company enables anyone to create, share, and monetize their own content. One creator reportedly earned KRW 6 million (approximately $4,400) in monthly revenue within just two months of the game’s launch.

DeepGrove plans to use the fresh capital to accelerate hiring of core talent and to advance its product, while also ramping up its expansion into global markets.

Founder and CEO Bongmin Na said DeepGrove aims to offer a new form of entertainment where anyone can experience the joy of creating alongside AI through Frontia.