Naver Webtoon launches AI story chat that lets fans step into creator‑approved webtoon worlds

SEOUL, July 1 — Naver Webtoon has rolled out a new AI-powered story chat service that allows readers to insert themselves into the narrative of selected webtoons, marking the platform’s latest push into interactive storytelling.

According to Korea JoongAng Daily, the service, called byUs, lets users become the protagonist of a creator‑approved title and shape the plot through conversational exchanges with characters. Only intellectual property cleared by original creators is included, a move aimed at avoiding the copyright and explicit‑content controversies that have surrounded unlicensed AI story generators.

byUs offers two modes. “Original story” allows fans to begin within the existing universe of a webtoon and branch into new plotlines, while “Fan story” places familiar characters in fresh scenarios and relationships, with built‑in tools for users to craft and share their own versions. AI‑generated suggested replies and autoplay features help keep the narrative moving.

The first title available is Ctrl+Alt+Resign (2025–), with more works slated to join the lineup.

“Webtoons are moving beyond content you simply read into an interactive space where fans take part in and expand the world themselves,” said Kim Shin‑hyung, head of Naver Webtoon’s intellectual property business.

The launch underscores Naver Webtoon’s broader strategy to evolve its platform beyond static reading, tapping into participatory formats that deepen fan engagement.