Solana’s Web3 Phone Takes Over Global Markets as NFT Mania Cools – Korea Tightens Crypto Laws

Solana's blockchain-powered phone just went worldwide—right as NFT hype hits a wall. Meanwhile, South Korea's regulators are sharpening their knives.

Web3 in Your Pocket: Solana's Mobile Play

The 'Chapter 2' device—already sold out pre-launch—is now shipping globally. No more regional lockouts for this crypto-native gadget, though skeptics whisper it’s just a fancy cold wallet with 5G.

NFT Floor Prices: Gravity Works

Blue-chip collections are bleeding value faster than a DeFi exploit. Even 'utility-focused' projects can’t dodge the bearish sentiment. Traders are rotating into memecoins (again).

Seoul’s Regulatory Hammer

Korea’s Financial Services Commission just dropped stricter AML rules for exchanges—including a bizarre ban on credit card purchases. Because nothing says 'financial innovation' like forcing crypto buyers to use 1998-era bank transfers.

Bottom line: The industry keeps moving while regulators play catch-up. Solana bets on hardware, NFTs flatline, and Korea proves bureaucracies hate velocity. At least the phone looks slick.

Solana Mobile Seeker Phone Now Available in Over 50 Countries

Solana Mobile has begun delivering its new Seeker smartphone to users across more than 50 countries. This marks a major expansion for the blockchain-focused mobile division of Solana Labs. The Seeker has already surpassed 150,000 pre-orders, reflecting growing demand for mobile-first crypto experiences.

According to Solana Mobile General Manager Emmett Hollyer, the Seeker includes substantial hardware upgrades and new on-chain tools that set it apart from its predecessor, the Saga phone. With a focus on integrating blockchain utilities directly into the mobile environment, the Seeker is designed to support developers, crypto traders, and Web3 enthusiasts.

Among its standout features:

• Seed Vault: A hardware-level security layer to safely store private keys and seed phrases.

• Decentralized App Store: Offers access to dApps without relying on centralized platforms, reducing risk of censorship.

• Mobile-native Wallet: Allows users to interact with digital assets directly from the phone.

Priced at $450–500, the Seeker could generate over $67.5 million in gross revenue for Solana Mobile, assuming all pre-orders are fulfilled. That’s a dramatic improvement compared to the initial Saga phone, which only sold about 20,000 units at start.

The broader ambition is to provide a seamless, mobile-native experience for interacting with decentralized applications, without relying on external wallets or desktop interfaces.

Takashi Murakami Unveils “108 Flowers Revised” NFT Card Packs on Base

Japanese contemporary artist Takashi Murakami has introduced a new NFT collection called “108 Flowers Revised”, available on the Base blockchain network. This collection reflects Murakami’s ongoing fusion of traditional Japanese art styles with modern digital platforms.

Here’s what collectors need to know:

• Each card pack contains 5 digital cards

• The cost per pack is 0.0014 ETH

• Unlimited minting during a 7-day sale window ending August 8

• Cards come in five rarity tiers, with classifications like “Common” and “Special Art”

Collectors can purchase using ETH or credit cards, making it accessible to both crypto-native users and newcomers. The sale is hosted on Kaikai Kiki Marketplace, the digital art platform operated by Murakami’s production company.

Murakami has long embraced digital art and blockchain technology, collaborating previously with NFT projects and exchanges. This new drop continues to position him as a pioneer in blending traditional fine art with blockchain-based collectibles.

South Korea Pushes Forward with Digital Asset Regulations

South Korea is moving quickly to develop a comprehensive digital asset policy framework as part of its broader push toward becoming a leader in the global digital economy. Deputy Prime Minister Koo Yoon-cheol confirmed that the government is working actively on crypto-related legislation during a Web3 forum hosted by lawmaker Min Byung-duk.

Both officials emphasized:

• The need for modern regulations to support innovation

• South Korea’s strong digital infrastructure through platforms like Naver and Kakao

• The urgency to act now or risk falling behind in the global Web3 race

Min Byung-duk highlighted that no massive capital investment is needed to lead in this space. Instead, Korea can leverage its existing tech capabilities and early user adoption trends to build a competitive position in blockchain and digital assets.

The push aligns with South Korea’s goal to establish clear rules for crypto, protecting consumers while fostering innovation. This includes potential licensing systems, improved investor protections, and support for blockchain startups.

Final Thoughts

From mobile crypto hardware going global to cultural icons engaging with blockchain, and governments laying policy groundwork, the Asia Pacific region continues to play a central role in the evolution of the crypto space.

• Solana Seeker could redefine mobile crypto experiences

• Murakami’s NFT packs blend art with blockchain in a collectible format

• South Korea’s fast-tracked regulations may set a global standard

As these stories unfold, they underscore the growing interplay between hardware, creativity, and governance in shaping the future of digital assets.