WDAF 2026 Brings Global Finance Leaders to Seoul
Industry experts gather to discuss the future of tokenization and digital asset architecture.
1Inaugural Digital Assets Forum
Herald Media Group hosts the first World Digital Assets Forum in Seoul this Monday. The event gathers global banking leaders and digital asset experts at The Grand Lotte Seoul. Participants will explore the theme of new financial architecture, focusing on blockchain technology, tokenized assets, and the transformation of global payment systems.
2Keynote on Financial Barriers
Naveen Mallela, global head of payments at Standard Chartered Bank, delivers the keynote address. Mallela, formerly co-head of JPMorgan Chase's blockchain business, will analyze how tokenization bridges traditional banking with digital finance. His insights aim to redefine the evolving role of banks within a rapidly digitizing global financial landscape today.
3Stablecoins and Asset Transformation
Don Tapscott of the Blockchain Research Institute discusses the transformation of assets within the new technology order. Additionally, Tether CEO Paolo Ardoino provides a video message regarding stablecoin opportunities. These sessions highlight how digital currencies are increasingly influencing institutional strategies and the broader mechanics of global financial asset management systems.
4Tokenization of Real-World Assets
Rania Rahardja from Ondo Finance examines the adoption of tokenized traditional assets, such as US Treasuries. Two dedicated sessions will investigate how traditional financial instruments transition onto blockchain networks. Experts from Mirae Asset Securities, HSBC, and Chainlink Labs will debate the regulatory and technological frameworks necessary to support broader industry adoption.
5Corporate Digital Asset Strategies
The forum addresses how companies incorporate cryptocurrencies into balance sheets while managing market volatility. Panelists including representatives from Coinbase Institutional and Korea Digital Asset Custody will discuss institutional investment and custody needs. This session provides a practical look at how firms navigate the complexities of digital asset treasury management strategies.
6Payment Infrastructure and Settlement
Payment sessions focus on how stablecoins and blockchain infrastructure transform cross-border transactions and money settlement. Industry leaders from BNY, Ripple, and Circle will share perspectives on modernizing global trade. These discussions emphasize the shift toward faster, more efficient payment systems that leverage decentralized technology to replace traditional, slower banking methods.
7Cybersecurity and Quantum Threats
Amid rising hacking concerns, Felix Eigelshoven from DFNS examines the security of digital assets. He will specifically address the potential threats posed by quantum computing to current encryption standards. The forum highlights the critical need for developing robust technologies to protect institutional assets against emerging and sophisticated long-term cybersecurity risks.
8Future Outlook and Education
The forum concludes with an open Q&A session for students, led by Tiger Research CEO Daniel Kim. This segment focuses on digital asset trends and emerging career opportunities in the sector. By engaging the next generation, the event underscores the long-term commitment to building a sustainable and knowledgeable digital financial ecosystem.
Original article: The Korea Herald – All — WDAF 2026 Brings Global Finance Leaders to Seoul