Coupang Joins Blockchain, Japan Launches Stablecoin Cards and More

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South Korea’s Coupang partners with Tempo blockchain for potential stablecoin payments, while Japan introduces its first stablecoin credit card repayments. These developments signal growing mainstream crypto adoption across Asia’s largest economies.

Coupang’s Blockchain Experiment

South Korea’s e-commerce giant Coupang has joined Tempo blockchain as an initial partner. Tempo is a layer-1 blockchain developed by US fintech Stripe and crypto VC Paradigm. The platform specializes in stablecoins and real-world payments.

This marks Coupang’s first disclosed blockchain venture, signaling potential stablecoin adoption. In fact, Global e-commerce leaders like Amazon and Shopify are already exploring similar technologies. Industry observers see this as reflecting Coupang’s willingness to embrace blockchain innovation.

Stablecoin integration could save Coupang hundreds of billions of won annually in payment fees. The technology would enable instant 24-hour transfers and reduce foreign exchange risks. However, South Korea’s regulatory uncertainty around stablecoins remains a significant obstacle.

Market experts expect faster blockchain adoption if domestic stablecoin regulations advance. Pending legislation could enable won-denominated stablecoins by early 2026, providing Coupang with expanded access to payment data and ecosystem growth opportunities.

Japan’s Stablecoin Credit Card Innovation

JPYC Corporation announced Japan’s first credit card, which accepts stablecoin payments for settlements. Nudge Corporation’s “Nudge Card” will accept Japanese yen-backed stablecoin JPYC for repayments starting October 2025. As a result, the service enables JPYC repayments for purchases at over 150 million VISA merchants worldwide.

The system will initially target limited users with the Nudge NFT experience and support the Polygon blockchain. This joins existing repayment methods, including bank transfers and convenience store payments. The development represents the growing acceptance of blockchain-based financial services in mainstream Japanese commerce.

BeInCrypto’s Asian Coverage

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