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KB Kookmin Card filed a patent for a stablecoin-linked credit card
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The system allows stablecoins to be spent through existing cards
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Stablecoin balances would be used first before charging the card
KB Kookmin Card, a subsidiary of South Korea’s largest financial group, has filed a patent for a payment system that would allow stablecoins to be used directly through traditional credit cards.
The proposed system links a user’s existing credit card to a blockchain wallet. Once connected, stablecoins held in the wallet could be spent automatically when making card payments. If the stablecoin balance is not enough to cover a purchase, the remaining amount would be charged to the credit card as usual.
According to the company, the goal is to reduce friction by keeping the familiar card payment experience while quietly integrating blockchain-based payments in the background. Customers would still benefit from existing protections, rewards, and card features.
The filing comes as South Korea continues to shape its stablecoin policy. Lawmakers are working on the Digital Asset Basic Act, which is expected to create a framework for won-pegged stablecoins issued by regulated entities. Major banks, including KB, have already moved to secure trademarks and explore infrastructure ahead of the new rules.
KB said it will consider regulatory and market conditions before rolling out any consumer-facing product, with a focus on safety and consumer protection.
