At a significant event in Seoul, Dunamu, South Korea’s largest digital asset exchange operator, announced its ambitious move to transcend traditional trading frameworks and establish itself as a crucial player in the Web3 infrastructure. The announcement was made during the 8th Upbit D Conference (UDC) 2025, where the company introduced its proprietary GIWA Chain and GIWA Wallet, positioning stablecoins as pivotal in the upcoming global financial transformation.
Dunamu’s CEO, Oh Kyoung-suk, marked his first major public appearance since assuming leadership with the unveiling of the company’s comprehensive Web3 strategy. The conference took place at the Grand InterContinental Seoul Parnas and attracted over 1,200 attendees, alongside 230,000 online viewers, solidifying its reputation as one of Asia’s key blockchain events.
In his keynote speech, Oh emphasized Korea’s shift from a historical defensive posture during past tech revolutions to a more offensive stance in the blockchain arena. “While Korea previously responded defensively to the rise of global Big Tech in the internet and AI revolutions, the blockchain revolution allows us to take an offensive stance,” he asserted.
Oh underscored the role of won-denominated stablecoins as essential infrastructure that connects blockchain technology with real-world finance. He noted their potential for enabling cross-border transactions and driving innovations in asset management and capital markets.
Dunamu’s focus on creating a new financial infrastructure built on trust highlights its commitment to innovation. “We’ve entered an era where we don’t just design currency — we design trust,” Oh stated. He expressed the company’s aim to serve as a launchpad for next-generation finance, with Korea positioned at the forefront of this evolution.
The conference featured notable discussions from leaders in the digital asset space, including Eric Trump, who emphasized the need for Korea to avoid becoming mired in bureaucratic obstacles that could hinder its potential in the Asian virtual asset market. Patrick McHenry, a former Chair of the U.S. House Financial Services Committee, echoed similar sentiments, stating that digital assets have become mainstream and that regulations must not stifle innovation under the guise of consumer protection.
Dunamu’s GIWA initiative is pivotal for Korea’s Web3 expansion, linking blockchain innovations with broader financial developments. With existing services like Upbit Custody and VerifyVASP, the company is establishing frameworks for cross-border digital finance operations.
Korea’s vision for a scalable, KRW-backed stablecoin ecosystem marks a significant shift from a reactive regulatory stance to one focused on proactive infrastructure development. Recent policy changes have also lifted investment restrictions for blockchain firms, integrating them into Korea’s official deep-tech sector.
By fostering relationships with international policymakers and highlighting cross-border financial solutions, UDC 2025 positions Korea to influence global digital asset governance. Dunamu is also investing in talent development through initiatives like Upside Academy, addressing the growing cybersecurity needs in blockchain as AI capabilities evolve.
Overall, UDC 2025 represents a pivotal moment for Korea’s blockchain ecosystem, signaling a shift from speculative trading to the establishment of foundational infrastructure. With its GIWA Chain, wallet infrastructure, and robust stablecoin strategy, Dunamu’s global ambitions align with Korea’s aspirations to be a leader in digital finance innovation. As the landscape of Web3 evolves, Korea’s proactive positioning may enable it to not only participate in the global blockchain economy but to help shape its future.
