South Korea-based developer and social networking operator Nurien Software has announced that it has secured $15 million in Series A funding to be used for accelerating the launch of its 3D social networking service platform and online game offerings.

Nurien plans to launch its platform and online offerings in China and Korea at the end of 2008, with its U.S. launch following early 2009. Using Epic Games' Unreal Engine 3 game engine, the service platform allows users to create one-of-a-kind, lifelike avatars and 3D content.

Users can also interact with Nurien's social applications, including Mstar, a virtual dancing game; Runway, a fashion show application; and QuizStar, an online trivia game.

"Having the backing of first-tier marquee investors greatly validates the progress we have made over the last few years," said Taehoon Kim, co-founder of Nurien Software. "We are excited to partner with world class venture capital firms to build upon our vision of creating a revolutionary new way for people to express themselves, interact with friends, and play online."