CEO and co-founder of online publisher K2 Network, Joshua Hong, will lead a panel discussion on the new online game payment models at the 2007 Online Game Development Conference (OGDC).

To be held May 11 in Seattle, Hong will moderate a panel filled with industry experts from Affinity Media, Microsoft, Flagship Studios, CCP Games, and The9 in the first conference dedicated to the production, technology, art, design and business of online games.

With his extensive experience in publishing and servicing online games, Hong will discuss K2 Network’s unique business strategy and how it is changing the gaming industry. With the expansion of online games offered to consumers, developers must now re-evaluate the various payment strategies that will maximise the value to consumers and revenue for developers. Hong will break down K2’s distinctive and leading business model Free2Play which allows users the opportunity to experience the full versions of K2 Network’s exciting online titles for free.

“The gaming industry is advancing at unparallel [sic] speed and online game companies do not want to be left behind,” said Hong. “With constantly changing conditions, there is a need to adopt new business strategies in order to stay in the game. I look forward to sharing my thoughts and experiences while promoting a lively discussion at the conference.”

For more information on the panel discussion, visit ogdc2007.com.