Samsung Wallet to Add USDC in Stablecoin Push

Stablecoins are evolving from crypto-trading instruments into payment and settlement infrastructure, prompting South Korean technology and financial groups to position for a won-backed token market. Samsung SDS brings expertise in artificial intelligence, cloud computing, cybersecurity and data management, while Dunamu operates Upbit, South Korea’s largest cryptocurrency exchange. A partnership could connect enterprise IT systems with Dunamu’s blockchain and digital-asset capabilities.

Samsung SDS is in discussions with Dunamu on stablecoin infrastructure, digital-asset systems and AI-enabled payment models, according to a July 30 report. The talks build on a May 28 agreement under which Samsung SDS, Samsung Securities and Samsung Card agreed to buy a combined 4% stake in Dunamu for 612.8 billion won. Samsung Securities was allocated 2%, while Samsung SDS and Samsung Card each took 1%; no timetable or financial terms for the proposed infrastructure projects were disclosed.

Stablecoins, blockchain-based tokens typically pegged to fiat currencies, have emerged as tools for payments, transfers and dollar savings. Native support in Samsung Wallet could move them beyond specialist crypto apps and give issuers such as Circle a direct route to mainstream consumers. Samsung Wallet has a presence in 61 countries, while the company’s Galaxy hardware and Knox security platform give it unusual control over distribution. Samsung’s target of 800 million Galaxy AI-enabled devices by end-2026, however, is not a confirmed stablecoin rollout or user count.

Samsung previewed native stablecoin functionality at Galaxy Unpacked in London on July 22, displaying a Samsung Wallet interface containing Circle’s USDC. It has not confirmed Circle as a partner or disclosed the blockchain, custody model, launch date or eligible markets. The announcement follows a May 28 deal in which Samsung Securities, Samsung SDS and Samsung Card agreed to pay 612.8 billion won ($408 million) for a combined 4% stake in Dunamu, operator of South Korea’s Upbit exchange, strengthening Samsung’s position across digital-asset infrastructure, payments and distribution.