The technological landscape of content creation is undergoing a dramatic transformation, particularly in the realm of video production. Today, the tools at creators’ disposal have become more sophisticated and accessible than ever before. Artificial intelligence (AI) is at the forefront of this evolution, streamlining the processes associated with video and animation generation. With startups and tech giants alike pouring resources into developing these capabilities, a distinct shift in how stories are told—and who gets to tell them—is already underway.
Among the emerging players in this rapidly growing sector is the South Korean startup, Cinamon. With a fresh infusion of $8.5 million in its Series B funding round, the company is gearing up to unveil its new animated video generation platform, “CINEV,” which promises to redefine how 3D animations and video content are produced. This platform, set for its beta release in early 2025, is not just another player in the AI video space; it aspires to fundamentally shift the dynamics of video creation in ways that previous tools have not.
Cinamon’s strategy diverges from existing AI video generation solutions, which typically rely on generating pixels based on text or reference materials. Instead, CINEV takes a more robust approach that integrates a rich 3D asset library and AI motion generation techniques. Utilizing a filmmaking-centric large language model, CINEV allows users to create fully realized 3D scenes—complete with characters and elements—using intuitive text prompts and adjustable controls. Unlike its predecessors, which often struggle with consistency and physical realism, CINEV offers a more coherent and visually engaging output, positioning itself as particularly well-suited for longer and more complex narratives, such as films and series.
“By enabling easier direction and editing workflows, we aim to elevate the storytelling experience,” states Cinamon’s CEO, Doosun Hong. “Our platform is designed not merely to compete with existing tools but to complement them, offering high-quality outputs that can serve as references for other AI video platforms.” This forward-thinking perspective highlights the potential for interoperability within content creation ecosystems, making CINEV a promising addition to the toolkit of creators across different media.
Cinamon’s origins trace back to 2019 when it emerged as a subsidiary of content production firm Vonvon. Initially focused on interactive storytelling through a joint venture with NAVER WEBTOON, the company pivoted to concentrate on developing robust tools that facilitate high-quality 3D animation. Unlike competitors that leaned into short interactive storytelling apps, Cinamon recognized the demand for more sophisticated animation capabilities, targeting broader scalability—an important consideration as content creators increasingly shift towards 3D storytelling and production.
In 2022, a strategic decision to prioritize the development of a 3D animation platform marked an important turning point for Cinamon. This transition not only reflects shifting consumer preferences towards more immersive media but also acknowledges the investment complexities associated with 3D content. The significant backing received from major players like Krafton, Naver Z, and SNOW further validates Cinamon’s vision, as these partnerships promise to enrich its platform with valuable intellectual properties.
Cinamon’s recent Series B funding brings its total capital raised to an impressive $18.5 million (25 billion KRW). This influx of resources is earmarked for several strategic initiatives, including enhancing their team of AI engineers and accelerating research and development efforts. With a team of experienced personnel from various sectors—3D graphics, gaming, AI, and content production—Cinamon is well-positioned to harness the creative potential of its platform.
As the company prepares for its beta launch, it is looking to extend its services to a wide array of potential users: comic and manga artists, game developers, and digital content creators—all of whom are searching for streamlined processes to create animations and video content. By making advanced tools available to a broad audience, Cinamon aims to democratize video creation, making it easier and more cost-effective for everyone, from independent creators to large content-driven enterprises.
As the landscape of content creation evolves, Cinamon appears poised to carve out its niche within a competitive market. Its focus on providing creators with powerful, efficient tools positions it to become a significant player not only in the realm of animation but also in the broader storytelling ecosystem. With CINEV on the horizon, the future for content creators looks promising—where technology and creativity coalesce to unlock new possibilities for expression and engagement in the digital age.