New to stablecoins? From basic concepts to advantages of KRW stablecoins, purchasing, and usage. Explained simply for everyone from teens to seniors.
Cryptocurrency is a digital asset based on blockchain technology, traded safely online without central institutions like banks. Blockchain ensures transparency and security by storing transaction records on a distributed network.
Used for investment, remittance, and payment, but stablecoins emerged due to high volatility.
Stablecoins are cryptocurrencies pegged to fiat (e.g., KRW, USD) or assets to minimize price volatility.
| Type | Description | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Fiat-Collateralized | Backed by fiat (USD, KRW), maintaining 1:1 value | Tether(USDT), USD Coin(USDC) |
| Commodity-Collateralized | Backed by physical assets like gold or real estate | Tether Gold, Dignity Gold |
| Crypto-Collateralized | Backed by other crypto, over-collateralized | Dai(DAI) |
| Algorithmic | Supply adjusted by algorithm, no collateral | TerraUSD |
KRW Stablecoins are pegged 1:1 to the Korean Won, making them familiar and convenient for domestic users.
In Oct 2025, IQ and Frax Finance launched KRWQ, a new KRW stablecoin.
Uses over-collateralization, holding more KRW assets than issued coins.
Maroo is a new blockchain mainnet optimized for the Korean economy and regulatory environment. It solves the complexity of existing blockchains and uses KRW stablecoin for gas fees.
GIWA is the proprietary blockchain brand unveiled by Dunamu, the operator of Upbit exchange. Consisting of GIWA Chain (an Ethereum-based Layer 2 network) and user-friendly GIWA Wallet, it serves as core infrastructure for the KRW stablecoin ecosystem.
Project Namsan is a KRW stablecoin-based foreign exchange (FX) settlement and payment innovation project led by SOOHO.IO. In partnership with Chainlink, it is building institutional exchange and settlement infrastructure.
Japan launched JPYC, the first regulated Yen stablecoin, in Oct 2025.
Key Regulations & News as of Jan 22, 2026
Legislation on stablecoins is expected to be fully implemented in 2026 due to ongoing discussions between FSC and BOK.
From Jan 2026, corporations are allowed to invest up to 5% of equity in digital assets.
The Phase 2 bill is expected to allow domestic ICOs for the first time in 8 years.
Major shareholder eligibility screening for crypto exchanges will be strengthened.
Since KRW stablecoins are not yet commercialized, here is how to buy USD stablecoins (USDT/USDC).
Similar procedures expected for KRW stablecoins upon launch.
Used for various purposes.
Risks exist, proceed with caution.
It's like game money used on the internet. Value doesn't change, so it's safe to use.
Digital asset pegged 1:1 to KRW, useful for stable investment, remittance, and payments.
Digital form of cash. Send money overseas faster and cheaper than banks.
KRW Stablecoins are the future of Korean digital finance. Commercialization is near with iM Bank and Naver Pay.
Always check credibility and regulations before investing.