Korea Payment Networks, a unit of Korea Credit Data, has completed registration to issue and manage prepaid electronic payment instruments, the company said on Aug. 18. It is discussing prepaid service integration with large franchises, retailers and public institutions. The company plans brand-specific prepaid and top-up point systems, as well as services linked to vouchers and local currencies. It has also completed a proof of concept enabling USDC payments through its payment gateway.

Products from South Korean AI semiconductor companies including Rebellion, FuriosaAI and DeepX were designated as outstanding R&D innovative products, giving them an opportunity to enter the public procurement market. The Ministry of Science and ICT said it awarded certificates and plaques to 13 companies selected from 2025 through the first half of this year. Designated items can be purchased through private contracts for three years, extendable up to six years, and are included in the 83.9 billion won pilot purchase programme.