Avalanche and Solana Get a Headstart in KRW Stablecoin Race

Core Insights - Major South Korean banks are exploring the development of KRW stablecoins, with BDACS creating a proof-of-concept for KRW1, potentially the first won-pegged stablecoin since the Digital Basic Act was passed [1][8] - The initial wave of South Korean stablecoins is not based on Ethereum but utilizes alternative blockchains like Avalanche and Solana [2] - KRW1 is characterized as a deposit token, fully backed by cash reserves held in a segregated account at Woori Bank, rather than being directly issued by a bank [3] Group 1: Development and Infrastructure - BDACS has chosen Avalanche for the initial launch of KRW1 due to its "technological excellence," with plans to expand to other networks in the future [4] - Wavebridge has partnered with the Solana Foundation to develop KRW stablecoin infrastructure aimed at financial institutions, indicating a collaborative effort to enhance blockchain adoption [5][6] Group 2: Competitive Landscape - The partnership between Solana Foundation and Wavebridge highlights the opportunities presented by new KRW stablecoins for blockchain adoption, with BDACS currently leading the race [7] - Despite BDACS's advancements, KRW1 may face competition from a coalition of nine major South Korean banks that are also exploring stablecoin initiatives [7][9] Group 3: Regulatory Environment - The passage of South Korea's Digital Basic Act has facilitated the development of KRW stablecoins, prompting banks and fintech companies to actively engage in this emerging space [8][9] - Following the enactment of the Digital Basic Act, numerous banks and payment companies have filed trademark applications, indicating their ambitions in the stablecoin market [9]