Seoul, South Korea, November 5th, 2026
IPX to Launch ‘minicoin’ Payment System at LINE FRIENDS Stores by Early 2027
IPX, formerly known as LINE FRIENDS, has announced plans to introduce a new payment service utilizing ‘minicoin’ at its online and offline stores. This innovative payment option is aimed at enhancing customer experiences by integrating digital assets into the purchasing process, linking character interactions directly to sales.
The phased rollout of this service is expected to commence in the first half of 2027, focusing on enhancing commerce compatibility with the Web3 ecosystem for customers in South Korea and international markets. By allowing purchases through minicoin, IPX aims to provide fans of its character IP a seamless, engaging experience when buying merchandise.
For over a decade, IPX has successfully developed its character IPs into a global brand through various products and pop-up experiences. Now, this initiative seeks to establish a novel digital commerce model that incorporates blockchain technology into transactions tied to its character merchandise.
Minicoin is a utility token created by Mini Labs, licensed by IPX to represent its well-known ‘minini’ character. This blockchain-based currency is designed to facilitate transparent records of interactions between IP and its fans, encompassing everything from creation to consumption and subsequent transactions.
The upcoming payment service is particularly noteworthy in light of the popularity of K-POP SQUARE, a venue opened in June 2025 in Seoul’s vibrant Hongdae district, which drew over one million visitors—80% of whom were international fans. This high level of engagement indicates a strong potential customer base for the new payment service as cryptocurrencies gain broader acceptance as a legitimate payment method.
“This service rollout represents a significant step in using digital assets for the direct purchase of physical goods, thereby moving beyond isolated trading platforms,” an IPX spokesperson commented. “We believe the value of IP can grow by fostering deeper connections with fans through diverse digital commerce opportunities as we adapt to the evolving marketplace.”
About IPX
IPX has rebranded from LINE FRIENDS, focusing on expanding its character brand that originated with popular figures like BROWN, CONY, and SALLY. These characters are widely recognized among the 200 million active users of the LINE messaging app. The company aims to accelerate its global presence by diversifying its portfolio and enhancing its digital and retail strategy. Currently active in 18 global markets, IPX collaborates with notable companies like Netflix and HoYoverse, appealing to over 50 million Millennials and Generation Z worldwide.
Media Contacts
Manager: Jiwoo Hong
Email: [email protected]
Sr. Director: Hanna Park
Email: [email protected]
