Kakao Pay Plans to Launch Korean Won Stablecoin, Business Layout Has Been Designed

South Korea’s digital finance sector is heating up as Kakao Pay, the fintech arm of tech giant Kakao, takes strategic steps to launch a Korean won-backed stablecoin. 

With the Digital Asset Basic Act under review in the National Assembly, the company appears to be positioning itself to seize early market dominance. But how far along is Kakao Pay, and what exactly is in store?

Trademark Filings Hint at Serious Intent

On June 17, 2025, Kakao Pay filed 18 trademark applications with Korea’s Intellectual Property Office, combining elements like "KRW" (Korean won), "K", and "P"—symbols closely associated with the brand. 

Examples include "KRWKP", "KWRP", and "KPKRW", all listed under virtual asset trading, e-money transfers, and financial intermediary services.

While the company has not yet confirmed a detailed launch plan, a spokesperson clarified that the trademarks were filed proactively as part of a long-term vision for stablecoin development.

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Strategic Timing Ahead of New Legislation

Industry insiders suggest that Kakao Pay's move is no coincidence. The Digital Asset Basic Act, which would formally allow private companies to issue Korean won stablecoins, is gaining momentum in the Korean parliament. 

By securing brand identity early, Kakao Pay appears to be laying the groundwork for a swift market entry once regulatory clarity is achieved.

A financial sector official noted, “This is a classic preemptive strategy. Kakao Pay is securing its future branding and structure now, anticipating fast-moving developments once the law passes.”

Rising Competition in the Stablecoin Arena

Kakao Pay isn't alone in its ambitions. Game developer Nexths has also declared its intention to become the first issuer of a Korean won stablecoin. 

The entrance of well-known tech companies is expected to ignite fierce competition in the domestic market, especially as crypto adoption continues to grow in South Korea.

Stablecoins pegged to fiat currencies like the U.S. dollar have already found mainstream acceptance globally. However, Korean won-pegged tokens remain underdeveloped due to tight regulations—something the new legislation could soon change.

What to Expect Next

If the legislation passes, we could witness a surge in KRW stablecoin launches. Kakao Pay’s early trademark filings suggest it aims to lead this charge. 

Analysts predict such moves could enhance cross-platform integrations within Kakao's existing ecosystem, from KakaoTalk to KakaoBank and Kakao Games.

However, the success of any stablecoin initiative will depend on transparency, regulatory approval, and user trust.

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Conclusion

Kakao Pay’s preemptive filing of stablecoin-related trademarks signals a serious intent to capitalize on South Korea’s evolving digital finance landscape. 

As the Digital Asset Basic Act edges closer to becoming law, Kakao may soon become a frontrunner in KRW-pegged stablecoin issuance. For now, the groundwork is laid, and the market is watching.

FAQs

1. What is a stablecoin?

A stablecoin is a type of cryptocurrency pegged to a stable asset like fiat currency to reduce volatility.

2. Why is Kakao Pay entering the stablecoin market?

Kakao Pay is preparing to leverage its fintech ecosystem and get ahead of regulatory changes allowing private KRW stablecoin issuance.

3. Is the stablecoin already available?

No, the project is still in the early stages. Trademark filings have been made, but there is no official launch date yet.

4. What makes KRW stablecoins significant?

They could enhance domestic crypto utility, offer faster settlements, and integrate seamlessly with local services—if properly regulated.