Prominent South Korean metaverse platform Zepeto is expanding into blockchain through its new ZepetoX (ZTX) initiative, created in partnership with Jump Crypto. ZTX recently revealed a $13 million seed round led by Jump.
Other investors include Collab+Currency, Parataxis, and MZ Web3 Fund. Valued above $1 billion, the mobile-first Zepeto claims over 400 million users since 2018, making it Asia’s largest “Web2” metaverse.
Last month, ZTX launched a private beta of its upcoming platform. It also partnered with NFT studio Dust Labs on a community campaign called Partner Wearables.
In a statement, ZTX co-CEO Chris Jang highlighted the startup’s goal to provide “an infrastructure layer for creators.” ZTX’s team includes alumni from Apple, Roblox, Epic Games, and blockchain experts.
Zepeto has pursued licensing deals with fashion and entertainment brands like Gucci, Blackpink, and Starbucks. It now seeks to leverage its Web2 success into NFTs, competing with metaverses like The Sandbox.
Powered by $13 million in fresh funding, Zepeto is positioned to capitalize on its large Asian user base as it bridges into the blockchain. With Web2 origins and partnerships, ZTX aims to build a creator-focused metaverse platform.
