Welcome to the Asia-Pacific Morning Brief—an essential summary of overnight cryptocurrency developments shaping regional markets and global sentiment. Prepare your green tea and stay tuned to this space.
Cryptocurrency taxation in South Korea is expected to be extended again beyond 2027 due to political concerns. Casio's G-SHOCK brand is entering the metaverse game with exclusive Non-Fungible Tokens. Mercari is collaborating with Coincheck to expand cryptocurrency accessibility in Japan.
Potential Further Delay in South Korean Cryptocurrency Taxation
Im Yi-ja, chairman of the National Assembly's Planning and Finance Committee, stated that South Korea's cryptocurrency tax system remains incomplete. As a member of the opposition People Power Party, he mentioned that the current 2027 implementation schedule may experience further extension. The tax framework continues to be prepared, with ongoing political and technical challenges.
The chairman emphasized that 9.6 to 9.7 million South Koreans are actively trading digital assets, with 47% under 30 years old. However, the Democratic Party, which advocates taxation where income exists, remains hesitant. The political sensitivity ahead of the 2026 local elections complicates legislative progress.
Cryptocurrency taxation was originally scheduled for 2025 but has already been postponed to January 2027. Ongoing bipartisan concerns about system preparation and voter sentiment continue to cause delays.
G-SHOCK Enters Metaverse Gaming
Japanese electronics giant Casio has initiated the G-SHOCK CITY partnership with the Sandbox metaverse platform. Known for digital watches and calculators, Casio offers a free gaming experience inspired by durability testing. Players can participate in virtual durability challenges reflecting G-SHOCK's robust brand identity.
Limited edition Non-Fungible Token avatars feature signature G-SHOCK models including DW-5600 and GA-110 styles. These digital collectibles target Web3 communities and blockchain enthusiasts. They aim to enhance brand engagement through an innovative virtual experience via exclusive release.
G-SHOCK's metaverse strategy seeks to captivate both loyal customers and younger demographics. Meanwhile, blockchain integration enhances interactive gameplay and builds digital brand presence.
Mercari Expands Cryptocurrency Trading via Coincheck Partnership
Mercari subsidiary Mercoin announced a strategic partnership with cryptocurrency exchange Coincheck in early 2026. The Japanese e-commerce giant operates Japan's largest community-based marketplace with over 10 billion yen in monthly transactions. This collaboration allows users to access broader cryptocurrency asset trading through an established infrastructure.
The partnership aims to accelerate cryptocurrency adoption in Japan through Mercari's extensive user base. 90% of Mercari users are cryptocurrency beginners seeking accessible entry points. Coincheck's industry leadership provides technical expertise for seamless user experience integration.
The strategic alliance combines Japan's dominant second-hand marketplace with a specialized cryptocurrency trading platform. The user-friendly interface aims to simplify digital asset trading for mainstream audiences. This partnership significantly expands cryptocurrency accessibility within Japan's retail ecosystem.
