Korea Blockchain Week Asia’s Premier Blockchain and Web3 Gathering

Korea Blockchain Week: Innovation, Investment And Inspiration Collide

Korea Blockchain Week lights up Seoul’s COEX Center as thousands of innovators, investors, and developers gather to shape Asia’s Web3 future. What happens when over 7,000 crypto professionals from 60+ countries meet under one roof? The city transforms into the heart of the global blockchain conversation.

This isn’t just another —it’s a full-scale Korea crypto event and Korea blockchain festival where ideas turn into partnerships and projects become movements.

Founded in 2018 by FACTBLOCK and co-hosted by Hashed, Korea Blockchain Week (KBW) has grown into the most influential Seoul blockchain summit . Each year, it attracts global leaders from Ethereum, Polygon, and Animoca Brands alongside Korea’s top fintech and gaming innovators. According to the official (updated 2024), the event spans seven days of panels, workshops, and exhibitions. It culminates in the IMPACT conference, where major announcements often send ripples through the global crypto market.

After covering Asian blockchain markets since 2018, I’ve seen firsthand how KBW drives real outcomes. In 2023, startups like Klaytn and Wemix used the stage to announce new partnerships, while venture firms closed multimillion-dollar deals inside meetings.

Data from shows that the conference generated over $50 million in reported venture activity and hosted more than 300 speakers. That scale places KBW among the top three global blockchain events by deal volume, according to Messari’s Asia Crypto Report.

As a participant myself, I’ve noticed something unique about KBW—its networking lounges and after-hours meetups often spark collaborations that outlast the week itself. Real-world application shows that founders who attend KBW often secure follow-up funding within six months. That’s why both startups and institutional players mark it as a must-attend event on their annual calendar.

For you, the challenge isn’t deciding whether to go—it’s figuring out how to make the most of it. Between packed sessions, side events, and late-night discussions, you’ll want to focus on what truly matters: connecting with the right people and spotting the trends that will define the next year in crypto. Check out to plan your days effectively and avoid missing key sessions.

Wondering how this once-local meetup became Asia’s Web3 powerhouse? Let’s look at how Korea Blockchain Week evolved into the global catalyst it is today.

Last updated: March 2026. Verified by industry sources including FACTBLOCK, Hashed, and Gravity Team.

Understanding the Essence of Korea Blockchain Week

Korea Blockchain Week (KBW) is far more than an annual blockchain conference—it transforms Seoul into a hub for builders, investors, and policymakers shaping the decentralized economy. To truly understand its significance, you need to see how it began, evolved, and became the cornerstone of Asia’s blockchain ecosystem.

1. Origins and Founding Vision by FACTBLOCK and Hashed

Ciaran O'Brien

When FACTBLOCK and Hashed launched KBW in 2018, their mission was to legitimize blockchain as a credible industry in Korea and Asia. FACTBLOCK focused on connecting enterprises with blockchain innovators, while Hashed—Seoul’s leading venture capital firm—brought financial expertise and international reach. Together, they built a platform grounded in credibility and collaboration. As a blockchain analyst who’s attended four editions since 2019, I’ve seen firsthand how their shared vision shaped KBW’s culture of transparency and innovation.

Event Snapshot

o Founded : 2018

o Organizers : FACTBLOCK and Hashed

o Location : Seoul, South Korea

o Category : Blockchain & Web3 Conference

o Audience : Startups, Investors, Developers

Key Takeaways

o Marked Korea’s first large-scale blockchain event

o Focused on education and regulatory collaboration

o Set the foundation for Asia’s blockchain standardization

Insider Advice

o Check early KBW archives to see how the Korean blockchain ecosystem formed

o Follow Hashed’s portfolio announcements during KBW for investment trends

o Network with FACTBLOCK’s partners—they often host closed-door sessions

For visitors attending Korea Blockchain Week, Seoul’s COEX district offers the most convenient access, surrounded by hotels and tech offices that stay open late for networking.

2. How KBW Evolved into Asia’s Leading Blockchain Conference

KBW began modestly in 2018. By 2025, it welcomed over 10,000 participants—mirroring the blockchain industry’s rapid growth. Early editions focused on education, but by 2022, major players like Binance, Polygon, and Animoca Brands joined the stage. The flagship IMPACT conference became KBW’s centerpiece, combining keynotes, panels, and startup showcases. According to Gravity Team’s 2022 report, even record rainfall couldn’t stop attendees from filling halls for two full days of sessions.

Event Snapshot

o Attendance : 10,000+ (2025)

o Main Event : KBW: IMPACT

o Duration: One week

o Host City: Seoul

o Planning Tip : Book early—sessions fill up fast

Highlights

o Expanded from local to international participation

o Hosted over 150 global speakers each year

o Introduced NFT exhibitions and hackathons

What to Do Next

o Check the Korea Blockchain Week schedule to plan your sessions

o Attend side events for deeper networking opportunities

o Compare KBW with TOKEN2049 or ETHDenver to track global trends

If you’re a founder or investor seeking visibility in Asia’s crypto scene, KBW’s mix of education and deal-making makes it one of the most productive blockchain conferences in Seoul.

3. The Core Mission: Fostering Innovation and Global Collaboration

KBW’s mission is simple yet powerful: unite builders, regulators, and investors to promote responsible blockchain adoption. In 2025, the event hosted 12 collaborative sessions between Korea’s Financial Services Commission and Web3 startups to discuss compliance frameworks. This model turned KBW into a trusted reference point for cross-border innovation. During those sessions, I noticed how open dialogue between startups and regulators built mutual trust—something rarely seen in other Asian conferences.

Event Snapshot

o Mission: Promote blockchain adoption through collaboration

o Focus: Innovation, regulation, partnerships

o Audience: Policy advisors, entrepreneurs, researchers

o Attendee Rating: 9.6/10 (FACTBLOCK 2025 survey)

Highlights

o Facilitated over 100 startup investments via KBW networking

o Encouraged dialogue between Korean and EU regulators

o Supported blockchain education in Seoul universities

What You Can Do

o Join sessions on regulatory frameworks—they often include government officials

o Attend Hashed’s roundtables for cross-border funding insights

o Review KBW’s post-event reports for collaboration opportunities

If you’re building a compliant blockchain venture, these sessions will give you practical frameworks and valuable contacts.

4. Milestones from 2018 to 2026: A Timeline of Growth

Each KBW edition represents a new chapter in blockchain’s maturity. For instance, the 2022 edition introduced NFT exhibitions and DeFi panels, signaling Korea’s shift toward mainstream adoption. The 2026 version focused on enterprise integration, proving that blockchain had moved from experimentation to infrastructure.

Insider Advice

o Review past KBW programs to identify recurring industry partners

o Track session themes over time to anticipate future trends

o Use KBW archives for historical insights and competitive research

Analysts and investors studying blockchain’s growth in Asia will find this timeline invaluable for understanding how Korea’s ecosystem matured.

5. Why Seoul Became the Epicenter of Blockchain Thought Leadership

Seoul wasn’t chosen by chance. With 98% internet penetration and government-backed blockchain sandboxes since 2019, the city offers unmatched infrastructure for large-scale tech events. 

According to the Korea Ministry of Science and ICT, blockchain adoption in Korean enterprises grew 42% year-over-year between 2023 and 2025. That momentum makes Seoul the natural stage for KBW’s global ambitions.

Event Snapshot

o City: Seoul, South Korea

o Internet Penetration: 98% (2025)

o Best Season: September–October

o Travel Cost: ₩1.2M–₩2.5M for international visitors

Highlights

o Government blockchain initiatives since 2019

o Strong overlap with gaming and metaverse sectors

o Advanced tech infrastructure supporting global events

What to Know

o Stay near Gangnam or COEX for easy venue access

o Check updates to follow Korea’s blockchain ecosystem

o Book hotels early—rates rise sharply during KBW week

If you’re attending from abroad, Seoul’s tech-forward environment ensures every visit is both productive and inspiring.

6. The Role of Upbit and Institutional Support in KBW’s Expansion

When Upbit became KBW’s main sponsor in 2026, it marked a turning point toward institutional recognition. As one of Asia’s largest exchanges, Upbit’s involvement attracted banks, funds, and fintechs, giving KBW fresh credibility. According to the partnership, ticket pricing boosted corporate participation by 35% in its first year.

Event Snapshot

o Main Sponsor: Upbit (since 2026)

o Category: Institutional Partnership

o Impact: Ticket prices stabilized, new investor sessions added

o Rating: 9.8/10 attendee satisfaction (2026)

Highlights

o Introduced institutional-grade investor sessions

o Bridged exchanges, regulators, and fintech startups

o Featured across global media outlets like Bloomberg and CoinDesk

Insider Advice

o Attend sponsor-led workshops—they often preview regulatory updates

o Follow Upbit’s KBW announcements for market insights

o Use VIP networking events to meet institutional players

If you’re an investor or fintech executive, KBW’s institutional track offers a rare chance to engage directly with regulators and major exchanges.

7. KBW’s Global Reach Participation from Innovators,     Investors, and Policy Makers

Today, KBW attracts participants from over 60 countries. Its agenda spans DeFi, AI, gaming, and digital identity, creating one of the most diverse blockchain gatherings in Asia. Policymakers from the EU, Singapore, and the U.S. attend to align standards and collaborate on regulation. This diversity has turned KBW from a Korean crypto event into a global think tank for innovation.

Event Snapshot

o Countries Represented: 60+

o International Ratio: 40% of attendees (2025)

o Best For: Global collaboration and partnerships

o Ticket Range: ₩350,000–₩1.5M

Highlights

o Cross-border partnerships are announced annually

o Participation from regulators, VCs, and DAOs

o Simultaneous translation and hybrid streaming options

What You Can Do

o Buy an early-bird to save up to 25%

o Join networking lounges for international deal discussions

o Use translator services when pitching to Korean investors

If your goal is international expansion, KBW’s diverse network makes it the most globally connected blockchain summit in Asia.

These seven dimensions explain why KBW continues to shape Asia’s blockchain policy, investment, and innovation scene. It now serves as a benchmark for Web3 adoption trends across the region, influencing both policy and capital flows.

Last verified: March 2026. Verified via FACTBLOCK

Key Highlights of Korea Blockchain Week 2026

Verified information: March 2026, based on official releases from FACTBLOCK and Hashed.

Following our earlier look at why Korea Blockchain Week (KBW) has become Asia’s premier blockchain gathering, let’s focus on what makes the 2026 edition stand out. This year’s event isn’t just another conference. It’s a full-scale summit that blends policy, innovation, and culture in one of the world’s most tech-forward cities—Seoul.

Hosted by FACTBLOCK and co-organized by Hashed, KBW 2026 is expected to attract over 10,000 global attendees, from founders and developers to regulators and institutional investors. Having attended KBW since 2019, I’ve seen it evolve from a niche developer meet-up into a global Web3 policy forum. Compared to 2025, the 2026 edition expands technical sessions by 30% and doubles investor-led panels, reflecting Korea’s accelerating blockchain adoption.

Here’s a detailed look at what makes KBW 2026 a defining moment for the blockchain community.

Event Dates, Venue, and Format Details

The 2026 edition runs from September 29 to October 1 at Seoul’s COEX Convention Center in Gangnam. You can attend in person or join virtually through the hybrid format. The COEX venue—famous for hosting global tech expos—gives this event a world-class stage for collaboration and learning.

Event Snapshot

• Dates: September 29 – October 1, 2026

• Venue: COEX Convention Center, Seoul

• Format: Hybrid (in-person + live stream)

• Expected Attendance: 10,000+ participants

• Organizers: FACTBLOCK and Hashed

Each space is designed for engagement. You’ll find translation booths for international guests, networking lounges for deal-making, and media zones for interviews. Based on post-event data from 2025, the hybrid model increased participation by nearly 40%, helping more global participants join virtually.

• Three full days of sessions and exhibitions

• Dedicated lounges for investors and developers

• Simultaneous translation in English, Korean, and Japanese

Pro Tip: Book your hotel near COEX early—rooms in Gangnam fill up weeks in advance. The lists partner accommodations offering early discounts.

Lauren Seo

What to Expect from KBW 2026’s Agenda and Schedule

This year’s agenda is both wider and deeper. Expect over 120 sessions spanning DeFi, NFTs, AI, compliance, and gaming. The first day focuses on macroeconomic trends and regulation, while later sessions emphasize innovation, interoperability, and market adoption. After attending last year’s panels, I can say the balance between policy and technology is what makes KBW unique in Asia.

• 120+ sessions across 5 major tracks

• Investor matchmaking powered by Hashed Ventures

• Evening mixers for cross-border networking

For better planning, download the official schedule or use the mobile app to bookmark sessions. According to Gravity Team’s 2022 report, attendees who pre-planned their agenda joined 35% more sessions on average—a clear productivity boost.

Who benefits most? Founders, analysts, and developers looking for structured insights across blockchain sectors. These sessions reveal what investors and regulators are prioritizing in 2026.

Main Sponsors and Partners Upbit, Hashed, and Strategic Collaborators

Upbit returns as the headline sponsor, reinforcing institutional confidence in Korea’s blockchain ecosystem. Hashed continues to bridge Korean innovation with global capital, while partners like Polygon Labs and Samsung Next contribute enterprise-grade perspectives. Their collaboration turns KBW into a strategic meeting point for technology and regulation.

• Panels on regulation and exchange transparency

• Corporate booths showcasing enterprise blockchain tools

• Private lounges for investor meetings

As noted in a16z Crypto’s field notes, Upbit’s involvement mirrors Korea’s maturing regulatory stance. If you’re an investor, this is where you’ll meet the people defining Asia’s digital asset infrastructure.

Featured Speakers and Panels Who’re Shaping the Future of Web3

Over 150 speakers will take the stage, including Vitalik Buterin, Simon Kim of Hashed, and executives from Binance and the Ethereum Foundation. Expect high-level discussions on interoperability, decentralized governance, and AI integration. The Korean Financial Services Commission will also host a policy session—an uncommon opportunity to hear regulators address the community directly.

• 150+ global speakers and innovators

• Interactive Q&A and fireside chats

• Workshops led by Ethereum core developers

From my experience moderating panels, the best connections often happen after sessions. Don’t rush out after a keynote—those casual hallway conversations can lead to partnerships that last for years. And if you miss a talk, the KBW app offers replay options.

Special Tracks DeFi, NFTs, AI, Compliance, and Blockchain Security

Five specialized tracks target advanced professionals this year. Each one includes hands-on workshops and certification opportunities. The DeFi and security sessions are especially popular—CertiK’s live audit demo in 2025 drew over 600 developers, according to CertiK’s official recap.

• Hands-on DeFi liquidity modeling sessions

• NFT gaming and metaverse integration labs

• AI-driven blockchain optimization case studies

These sessions are practical and tool-focused. You’ll leave with frameworks you can apply immediately. If you’re planning to attend, register early—technical workshops usually fill up within hours of opening.

KBW IMPACT and Seoul After Party Where Networking Meets Innovation

Beyond the main conference, the Seoul After party adds cultural flair. Hosted at venues like The Hyundai Seoul and Le Chamber, it blends business with art, music, and technology. Several startup funding rounds reportedly began at these after-hours gatherings, proving that real deals often happen offstage.

• Live DJ sets and NFT art showcases

• Private lounges for investor discussions

• Interactive metaverse networking booths

Arrive early, bring digital business cards, and respect local etiquette—punctuality matters in Korean business culture. If your goal is long-term collaboration, this is where relationships truly start.

Ticket Information, Access Levels, and Registration Tips

Tickets are available through the official KBW ticket portal. Prices range from ₩350,000 (≈$260) for General Admission to ₩1,200,000 for VIP access. Each tier includes unique benefits—from lounge access to private investor dinners. Based on 2025 data, early-bird buyers saved up to 25% and secured better seating.

• General, Professional, and VIP tiers

• Group discounts for teams of five or more

• 80% refund available until August 31, 2026

When registering, use crypto-friendly payment options and confirm authenticity via the official site. You can also checkCoinGabbar’s KBW schedule page for ticket updates and event coverage.

Each year, KBW redefines what a blockchain festival can be. With its mix of high-level policy discussions, technical workshops, and cultural experiences, the 2026 edition promises both insight and opportunity. If you’re building or investing in Web3, this is where your next big connection might happen.

Information confirmed: March 2026 via FACTBLOCK, Hashed, and Gravity Team reports.

The Evolution of KBW From 2018 to 2025

Before we move forward to what’s next for KBW, it’s worth looking back at how the event evolved between 2018 and 2025. Over these years, Korea Blockchain Week grew from a small industry meetup into Asia’s leading crypto event—a true blockchain festival and Web3 conference that connects global innovators in Seoul. This evolution mirrors the blockchain industry’s own journey, from early experiments to mainstream adoption across finance, gaming, and infrastructure.

When I first attended KBW in its early years, it was clear that Seoul was positioning itself as a hub for blockchain innovation. Each edition since then has reflected both Korea’s technological ambition and the global market’s shifting priorities—from DeFi to digital assets and now to institutional Web3 frameworks.

Red Shuheart

Verified March 2026 using FACTBLOCK and Hashed data. Supplementary information from Gravity Team’s KBW report and official KBW archives.

1. KBW 2018 The Inception of Korea’s Blockchain Movement

The inaugural year, 2018, marked Korea’s formal entry into the global blockchain conversation. Organized by FACTBLOCK and Hashed, the event introduced Seoul as a serious player in emerging decentralized technologies. I remember the buzz in the room—developers, investors, and policymakers eager to understand how blockchain could extend beyond Bitcoin speculation.

Event Snapshot

o Location: The Shilla Seoul

o Attendance: Around 1,000 participants

o Main Theme: Blockchain’s potential beyond cryptocurrency

o Talks from the Ethereum Foundation and ICON founders

o Early discussions on Korea’s blockchain accelerator programs

o Policy roundtables between startups and government officials

Insight: This early edition set the tone for Korea’s blockchain ecosystem. Tickets averaged ₩300,000, and sessions often ran past schedule due to open debates.

2. KBW 2019 Expanding Global Footprint and Corporate Engagement

The following year saw KBW double in scale and ambition. Held at Seoul’s COEX Convention Center, the event shifted toward enterprise adoption and cross-border collaboration. It became a defining blockchain conference in Seoul, with major Korean corporations like Samsung, Kakao, and LINE demonstrating real-world blockchain use cases.

At a Glance

o Attendance: About 4,000

o Theme: Blockchain for mainstream industries

o Key Sponsors: Samsung, Kakao, LINE

o Corporate showcases of Klaytn and Samsung Blockchain Wallet

o Panels on tokenization and security tokens

o Startup pitch sessions with global venture funds

Pro Insight: Comparing the 2019 agenda with the Korea Blockchain Week schedule today shows how far institutional adoption has come. Tickets ranged from ₩400,000–₩500,000.

3. KBW 2020–2021 Digital Transformation Amid Global Challenges

When the pandemic disrupted global travel, KBW quickly adapted. Organizers FACTBLOCK and Hashed introduced a hybrid model, combining limited in-person sessions with virtual broadcasts. Over 10,000 online participants joined, proving that Korea’s blockchain community could thrive even under lockdown.

Event Highlights

o Format: Hybrid and virtual

o Main Theme: Resilience through decentralization

o Viewership: 10,000+ online attendees

o Virtual hackathons and NFT showcases

o DeFi and cross-chain interoperability panels

o Fireside chats with Binance and Coinbase executives

Takeaway: KBW became one of the first major crypto events to succeed online. Virtual passes ranged from free to ₩150,000, depending on session access.

4. KBW 2022 Reconnecting the Blockchain World in Seoul

After two years apart, the community reunited at KBW 2022. Despite Seoul’s heaviest rainfall in eight decades, sessions continued as planned—a metaphor for blockchain’s resilience. Gravity Team’s analysis reported over 8,000 attendees, with NFTs, metaverse projects, and regulatory policy dominating discussions.

Key Highlights

o Dates: August 7–14, 2022

o Venue: Grand InterContinental Seoul Parnas

o Theme: Rebuilding trust and infrastructure

o 150+ speakers at the IMPACT conference

o Side events by Polygon, Solana, and CertiK

o Panel on Korea’s blockchain regulation roadmap

Takeaway: The 2022 edition reestablished KBW as Asia’s premier korea blockchain festival. Tickets averaged ₩600,000.

5. KBW 2023 Web3 Maturity and Institutional Adoption

By 2023, the event had matured into a full-scale korea web3 conference. Institutions like Mirae Asset and Hana Bank joined panels, signaling traditional finance’s embrace of blockchain. I attended that year and saw firsthand how regulatory clarity boosted investor confidence.

At a Glance

o Theme: Web3 meets the real economy

o Attendance: 10,000+

o Keynote Speakers: Ethereum co-founder, Animoca Brands CEO

o Launch of Korea’s first token securities pilot

o CBDC and stablecoin framework discussions

o Networking lounges hosted by Upbit and Bithumb

Takeaway: Perfect for investors exploring institutional DeFi. Passes ranged ₩700,000–₩1,000,000.

6. KBW 2024 Building Bridges Between TradFi and DeFi

In 2024, KBW positioned itself as the bridge linking traditional finance with decentralized systems. Tokenized real-world assets and compliance frameworks dominated the agenda. Upbit and Hashed Ventures launched major Web3 funds, signaling Korea’s confidence in blockchain’s economic potential. 

According to RootData’s 2024 report, institutional DeFi volume in Korea rose 38% year-over-year.

Event Highlights

o Dates: September 1–7, 2024

o Main Sponsor: Upbit

o Attendance: 10,000+

o Demonstrations of tokenized treasury bonds by Korean fintech companies

o DeFi sandbox sessions led by Hashed

o Stablecoin regulation panel with the Bank of Korea

Insight: KBW 2024 solidified Seoul’s position as a financial innovation hub. Tickets averaged ₩900,000.

7. KBW 2025 Record Attendance and Breakthrough Announcements

By 2025, KBW had become Asia’s largest blockchain gathering, attracting over 10,000 attendees from 40+ countries. The focus turned to scaling Web3 infrastructure, AI integration, and sustainability. a16z’s field notes highlighted Korea’s leadership in building scalable Web3 ecosystems.

Key Highlights

o Dates: September 22–28, 2025

o Venue: COEX, Seoul

o Attendance: 12,000+

o Theme: Scaling Web3 sustainably

o Launch of KBW Green Protocols initiative

o AI x Blockchain panels with Google Cloud and Naver

o Unveiling of Seoul’s municipal blockchain sandbox

Pro Tip: Check the Korea Blockchain Week schedule for 2025 to review session details. VIP passes peaked at ₩1,200,000.

Across seven years, KBW evolved from a niche meetup into a global Web3 powerhouse. Each edition reflected Korea’s growing influence—from early experimentation to institutional adoption and sustainable innovation. If you’re serious about blockchain’s future, this event should be on your radar.

Analysis by a blockchain researcher covering Asian Web3 ecosystems since 2017. Data verified March 2026 via FACTBLOCK, Hashed, and Gravity Team reports.

Inside the KBW Experience Programs, Panels, and Networking Opportunities

Building on KBW’s momentum, let’s look at what makes the Korea Blockchain Week (KBW) experience stand out. Each year, Seoul becomes one of Asia’s busiest centers for blockchain and Web3 innovation. In 2025, more than 12,000 participants from 60+ countries attended—proof that this event has outgrown its regional roots. Beyond the keynotes, it’s a full week of collaboration. Builders, investors, policymakers, and enthusiasts connect through structured programs and spontaneous networking that often spark long-term partnerships. From flagship conferences to private dinners, every moment is designed to strengthen Korea’s blockchain ecosystem and global reputation.

1. KBW IMPACT The Flagship Conference for Visionaries and Builders

IMPACT anchors the week’s agenda as its most influential conference. It brings together world-class speakers, founders, and institutional leaders to discuss protocols, policy, and the future of digital assets. I’ve attended the 2025 edition, and the energy inside Seoul’s COEX was unmatched—it felt like TED meets deep tech. According to Gravity Team’s KBW 2022 report, over 8,000 attendees joined despite record rainfall, showing the event’s resilience. FACTBLOCK’s 2025 recap confirmed attendance nearly doubled, reflecting Korea’s growing leadership in Web3.

Quick Facts

o Price: ₩800,000–₩1,200,000 (VIP Tier)

o Location: Seoul, South Korea

o Duration: 2 days

o Ideal For: Founders, VCs, Developers, and Policy Analysts

Key Highlights

o Keynotes by blockchain CEOs and Korean government officials

o Panel debates on DeFi, NFTs, and AI integration

o Interactive Q&A with live English-Korean translation