Pearl Abyss awarded its employees a special bonus after Crimson Desert surpassed 5 million copies sold less than a month after launch, the company said today [1]. The bonus amounted to 5 million won per employee, roughly US$3,400 [1].
Crimson Desert sold over 2 million copies within 24 hours of release and crossed the 5 million mark in under a month, demonstrating strong global demand [1]. Pearl Abyss CEO Heo Jin-young expressed respect and gratitude for the team's effort, saying, "I am paying a celebratory bonus for achieving 5m sales to all employees who have silently fulfilled their roles in their respective positions." He added, "Our journey does not end here. The potential we confirmed today will be the most powerful driving force to overcome any challenge we face in the future" [1].
South Korea's prime minister praised Crimson Desert as "a new chapter in K-content" and "a crucial turning point for the national games industry," highlighting its significance for the country's entertainment sector [1].
Heo also noted that employees can expect another bonus at the start of 2027 based on the company's overall financial performance for 2026 [1]. The milestone sales figures and bonus are viewed as a major success for Pearl Abyss and its highly anticipated title, underscoring the game’s appeal since its launch.