Chiara Bianchi
LINE NEXT, the Web3-focused subsidiary of Asia’s prominent messaging app LINE, has unveiled its initial suite of decentralized applications (Dapps) directly integrated into the LINE messenger. This strategic move aims to make Web3 technology more accessible and drive widespread adoption across Asia.
The newly introduced Mini Dapps include a mix of games, social media platforms, and other Web3-driven experiences. These applications are powered by Kaia, a Layer 1 blockchain jointly developed by LINE NEXT and Kakao, South Korea’s leading messaging app.
To streamline the user experience, LINE NEXT also rolled out Dapp Portal, a platform that allows LINE users to discover new Dapps and trade blockchain-based assets like NFTs seamlessly.
Among the inaugural Mini Dapps are:
- “Captain Tsubasa -RIVALS-“, a blockchain-based game inspired by the iconic Japanese manga series.
- Superz, a healthcare and wellness-focused Dapp that leverages Web3 for user engagement.
LINE NEXT has ambitious plans to expand its ecosystem, targeting the launch of over 1,000 Dapps by the end of the year.
The Web3 Race Among Messaging Platforms
LINE NEXTโs initiative comes after the success of Telegram’s blockchain-powered Dapps, which set a benchmark for integrating Web3 into messaging platforms. Popular games like Notcoin and Hamster Kombat, based on the TON blockchain, helped Telegram grow its user base from 4 million to 128 million in just one year.
Youngsu Ko, CEO of LINE NEXT, emphasized the importance of usability in Web3 adoption. “The true mainstreaming of Web3 services hinges on how accessible and user-friendly they are,” Ko said. “Integrating Mini Dapps into LINE Messenger represents Asiaโs first large-scale case of Web3 adoption.”
LINE’s Massive Reach in Asia
With an estimated 200 million users globally, LINE holds significant influence in key markets such as Japan, Taiwan, and Thailand. According to a 2024 report by Chosun Ilbo, LINE’s dominance in Asia positions it as a powerful platform for Web3 innovation.
LINE NEXTโs integration of blockchain applications into its widely used messaging platform marks a pivotal step for Web3 in Asia. By combining accessibility with innovative content, LINE is well-positioned to lead the region into a new era of decentralized technology adoption. As the ecosystem grows with additional Dapps, it could set a precedent for other global tech giants to follow.
