In a major milestone, XRP has emerged as the top-traded cryptocurrency in South Korea for 2025, with trading volume surpassing $1 trillion on Upbit, the country’s largest crypto exchange. This impressive figure highlights the sustained popularity of XRP among South Korean traders and investors, outpacing even Bitcoin and Ethereum in local markets.
This trend reflects the unique dynamics of South Korea’s crypto scene, where certain digital assets gain regional momentum due to community support, exchange listings, and trader behavior.
Why XRP Is So Popular in South Korea
XRP’s dominance on Upbit is no coincidence. The token has long been favored by South Korean investors for its low transaction fees, fast settlement times, and easy access across local platforms. XRP often sees high volatility—something retail traders in South Korea frequently capitalize on.
Additionally, Ripple’s ongoing global expansion and legal progress in various jurisdictions may have contributed to renewed confidence in the asset. Local demand, combined with strong liquidity on exchanges like Upbit, helps fuel consistent trading volume.
UPDATE: $XRP leads South Korea in 2025 trading volume, with over $1 trillion processed on Upbit. pic.twitter.com/xvpirZNR3a
— Cointelegraph (@Cointelegraph) January 16, 2026
What This Means for XRP and the Broader Market
Crossing the $1 trillion trading mark on a single platform is no small feat. It signals that XRP remains a major player in the crypto space—especially in regions with active retail participation. South Korea’s influence on global trading trends can’t be overlooked, and XRP’s performance there could influence perceptions and demand in other markets.
As 2026 begins, XRP’s momentum in South Korea could have ripple effects across the global market—pun intended.

