The Reasons Behind South Korea’s Enduring Fascination with XRP Over Time

crypthub

5/13/2026, 2:00:29 PM

XRP Leads Upbit Trading

XRP has surged to the top of Upbit’s 24‑hour trading volume, overtaking Bitcoin, Ethereum, and USDT. This reflects unusually strong retail demand for XRP in South Korea, a pattern that sets the market apart from global trends. The cryptocurrency’s low unit price gives a psychological edge, making it feel more accessible to smaller traders seeking perceived upside. Fast settlement times and deep liquidity further boost its appeal among active Korean traders.

Factors Driving Korean Retail Preference

Korean investors have favored XRP since the 2017 bull market, embedding it in the country’s retail trading culture. Its rapid settlement and frequent volatility attract momentum‑focused participants. Deep order books across major exchanges support high‑frequency trading. This loyalty has persisted through multiple market cycles, keeping XRP among the most actively traded assets on Upbit.

Institutional Support Strengthens XRP

Ripple’s expanding regional footprint reinforces confidence in XRP. South Korea’s K Bank is piloting blockchain‑based cross‑border payments with Ripple’s technology, and a partnership with Kyobo Life aims to tokenise government bond settlements. These initiatives shift Ripple’s role from mere speculation to core financial infrastructure. Growing institutional interest helps sustain XRP’s dominance on Korean exchanges.