Deep Dive
1. 10K Merchant Adoption Confirmed (1 September 2025)
Overview:
Paycoin’s real-world utility solidified with confirmed adoption at 10,000+ South Korean merchants, including 7-Eleven and KFC. The Hyperledger-based PayProtocol enables sub-second transactions at ~1% fees, contrasting with traditional card networks’ 2-3% charges.
What this means:
Bullish for PCI’s transactional demand, as merchant adoption directly ties to payment volume. However, turnover remains low ($1.46M/24h vs. $111M market cap), suggesting most tokens aren’t actively circulating. (Bitrue)
2. Lawmakers’ Holdings Revealed (27 August 2025)
Overview:
South Korean opposition lawmaker Jin Jong-oh disclosed 214 PCI ($23) in mandatory asset filings – a symbolic stake, but his mother holds $9,579 in crypto (BTC, CHZ). The ruling party pushes crypto deregulation to attract investment.
What this means:
Neutral politically – small holdings suggest no direct policy influence, but broader regulatory tailwinds could benefit PCI. Monitor Korea’s proposed Digital Asset Basic Act (DABA) for payment token clarity. (Cryptonews)
3. Stablecoin Card Launch Imminent (5 August 2025)
Overview:
Danal (PCI’s issuer) will debut stablecoin-loaded prepaid cards in Q3 2025, converting USDT/USDC to KRW at POS. Targets $40B+ foreign tourist spending market, leveraging PCI’s existing merchant network.
What this means:
Bullish indirect exposure – PCI isn’t directly used, but Danal’s fintech growth could boost PayProtocol’s credibility. Watch Q3 card adoption metrics vs. 2023’s 56T won ($40B) prepaid card volume. (CoinMarketCap)
Conclusion
Paycoin balances tangible adoption (merchants, cards) with lingering skepticism from its 2021 collapse. While daily transactions remain modest, the 7.66% 24h price surge suggests renewed interest. Will regulatory shifts under Korea’s pro-crypto administration amplify PCI’s utility – or revive volatility concerns from the “Kimchi Coin” era?