Bithumb Partners with Trump-Backed WLFI to Expand Crypto Services in Korea

South Korea’s second-largest cryptocurrency exchange, Bithumb, has announced a strategic partnership with World Liberty Financial (WLFI), a crypto venture founded by members of U.S. President Donald Trump’s family.

The collaboration was formalized through a memorandum of understanding (MOU) signed on September 22, 2025, at the Bithumb Financial Tower in Seoul.

WLFI, which launched in late 2024, has quickly established itself as a significant player in the blockchain space. Its flagship stablecoin, USD1, has already achieved a $3 billion market capitalization and is listed on major Korean exchanges, including Bithumb and Upbit.

With this partnership, WLFI aims to strengthen its footprint in the Korean market, one of the top five crypto hubs globally.

Driving Stablecoin Adoption and Global Trust

The alliance comes at a pivotal time for stablecoins in Asia. WLFI recently confirmed upcoming consumer-focused products, including a debit card integrated with Apple Pay and a retail payments app designed to combine peer-to-peer transfers with trading tools.

These products are expected to push USD1 further into mainstream adoption by linking digital assets to everyday financial activities.

At the signing ceremony, Bithumb CEO Lee Jae-won emphasized the importance of the collaboration, calling it “an important milestone in enhancing Bithumb’s global competitiveness.” He added that the exchange is committed to building a stronger global network of strategic partners.

WLFI co-founder Zak Folkman echoed this sentiment, noting that South Korea’s digital culture and thriving gaming industry make it an ideal market for testing stablecoin-based payment systems. He also highlighted the company’s decision to remain chain-agnostic, focusing on cross-chain products rather than launching its own blockchain.

Korea as a Growth Hub for Global DeFi Expansion

South Korea’s crypto market, valued at more than ₩100 trillion ($72 billion) in 2025, provides fertile ground for innovation in digital finance. The partnership between Bithumb and WLFI could accelerate the integration of stablecoins into payments, gaming, and online transactions, extending beyond traditional trading.

While regulatory differences across Asia present challenges, both companies expressed confidence in navigating these complexities. WLFI’s expansion strategy, combined with Bithumb’s established reputation, is set to boost investor confidence and broaden DeFi adoption.

This partnership signals more than just a business deal—it marks a turning point where stablecoins like USD1 may evolve from trading tools into everyday financial instruments across Asia’s digital economy.