BeInCrypto • October 6th 2026, 4:37 AM
South Korea's AI Mania Spills Into Crypto, With Worldcoin as Top Pick
Key Summary
South Korean retail traders have driven a 12.3% growth in the country's crypto economy, with AI tokens becoming the top theme in won trading by June. Worldcoin (WLD) led the pack with $7.41 billion in trading volume, dwarfing other AI tokens and even the broader market. The demand has been fueled by high-risk, high-reward bets, with Korean banks and institutions remaining largely in pilot mode.
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Key Takeaways
- South Korean retail traders have driven a 12.3% growth in the country's crypto economy.
- AI tokens have become the top theme in won trading by June, with Worldcoin (WLD) leading the pack.
- The demand has been fueled by high-risk, high-reward bets.
- Korean banks and institutions remain largely in pilot mode.
Market & Token Impact
- Worldcoin (WLD) has seen a significant increase in trading volume, with $7.41 billion in trading volume over the year.
- Other AI tokens, such as Sahara AI (SAHARA) and Virtuals Protocol (VIRTUAL), have also seen significant growth.
- The demand for AI tokens has outpaced the broader market, with AI crypto assets rising 54% in September.
Broader Context & What's Next
- The growth in the AI sector could be influenced by the upcoming 22% tax on crypto gains in South Korea.
- The tax decision and the rotation of traders could shape whether Korean traders keep Worldcoin (WLD) at the top of their AI token list.
- The sector's growth could also be influenced by the easing of supply, with daily Worldcoin unlocks expected to fall 43% from July 24.
- Despite the challenges, the outlook for Worldcoin (WLD) remains positive, with the sector valued at about $15 billion and potential for major winners within five years.