Focus AI completes transformative acquisition of Busan Digital Asset Exchange and gains monopoly on RWA tokenization

In a landmark move for South Korea’s burgeoning digital finance sector, artificial intelligence company Focus AI has completed the acquisition of Busan Digital Asset Exchange (Bdan). This pivotal transaction, confirmed on February 27, 2025, will make Focus AI the controlling shareholder with a 40.61% stake. As a result, this agreement represents a significant consolidation in Asia’s competitive real world asset (RWA) tokenization environment. The acquisition process, which began last December, ended with the final payment, allowing Focus AI to outperform other major shareholders such as ITcen Global, which holds about 19%.

Acquisition of Focus AI will reshape South Korea’s digital asset market

The completion of this acquisition represents more than just a corporate transaction. This marks a strategic shift for Focus AI, a company previously known for its core AI technology, to become the center of digital asset infrastructure. By securing control of Bdan, South Korea’s first RWA tokenization-only exchange, Focus AI immediately gains entry and leadership in a high-growth niche. The company has articulated ambitious plans to expand its services across three interconnected verticals: RWA tokenization, security token offerings (STOs), and stablecoin-based payment systems. This integrated approach aims to create a comprehensive ecosystem for tokenized assets.

Industry analysts see this move as a direct response to global financial trends. While traditional finance increasingly seeks blockchain efficiencies, regulators are demanding more structured frameworks. Bdan’s existing regulatory infrastructure in Busan, which is designated as a blockchain-free zone, is an important starting point. Focus AI can therefore leverage this established compliance foundation to quickly expand new business lines. The timing is particularly strategic, coinciding with increased institutional interest in tokenizing assets such as real estate, goods, and intellectual property.

Strategic rationale behind acquisition of Busan Digital Asset Exchange

To understand the significance of this Focus AI acquisition, we must consider the unique value of Busan Digital Asset Exchange. Founded as a pioneer, Bdan specializes in bridging physical assets and blockchain representation, a process known as RWA tokenization. The process involves creating digital tokens on a blockchain that are backed by tangible assets and offer benefits such as fractional ownership, enhanced liquidity, and a transparent audit trail. Bdan’s first-mover status in South Korea has provided it with valuable regulatory experience and early market confidence.

For Focus AI, exchanges are not just platforms, but also important distribution channels and regulatory assets. The table below contrasts the core competencies that each entity brings to the combined business.

The synergy is clear. Focus AI’s technological capabilities enable you to automate and secure complex processes on Bdan’s platform. Meanwhile, Bdan’s operational and regulatory framework provides the necessary sandbox for innovation. This combination directly supports the stated goal of building a robust digital asset infrastructure business. Additionally, this will allow the new entity to compete more effectively against both traditional financial institutions and other crypto-native exchanges expanding their tokenization.

Expert analysis on market impact and future trajectory

Financial technology experts point to several immediate implications of this completed acquisition. First, the institutionalization of South Korea’s digital asset market will accelerate. Capital-rich, technology-focused owners like Focus AI can invest in the security, scalability, and user experience that large investors require. Second, it has the potential to draw more traditional Korean conglomerates (chaebols) into the tokenization space for asset management and capital raising, with a focus on the STO and RWA sectors.

Expansion into stablecoin-based payment and settlement services is also another important aspect. By integrating reliable digital currencies into transactions, the platform can facilitate instant and low-cost settlement of tokenized asset transactions. This creates a closed-loop system from asset tokenization to trading and final settlement. Analysts point to similar models being considered in markets such as Singapore and Switzerland, suggesting Focus AI is in line with global best practice trends. However, long-term success will depend on navigating South Korea’s evolving digital asset regulations, particularly the upcoming security token framework expected from the Financial Services Commission (FSC).

conclusion

Focus AI’s final decision to acquire Busan Digital Asset Exchange is a game-changer for the financial technology landscape in South Korea. We combine cutting-edge artificial intelligence with a professional, regulated exchange to create a powerful organization poised to lead in real-world asset tokenization, security token offerings, and digital payments. This strategic move not only strengthens its market position, but also marks a mature stage of growth in the digital asset industry, where technology integration and regulatory clarity are paramount. The success of this venture could influence the pace and direction of blockchain adoption across the broader Asian financial sector.

FAQ

Q1: What percentage of Busan Digital Asset Exchange does Focus AI currently own?
Focus AI secured 40.61% of Bdan’s shares, making it the single largest shareholder and giving it control of the exchange.

Q2: What is RWA tokenization? Why is it important?
RWA (Real-World Asset) tokenization is the process of creating digital tokens on a blockchain that represent ownership of physical assets, such as real estate or works of art. This is important because it increases the liquidity of these assets, makes them accessible through fractional ownership, and facilitates transparent transfer.

Q3: Who are the other major shareholders of Busan Digital Asset Exchange?
ITcen Global will continue to hold approximately 19% of the shares in Busan Digital Asset Exchange after acquiring Focus AI.

Q4: What are the key business areas that Focus AI plans to expand through this acquisition?
Focus AI plans to expand its digital asset infrastructure business, with a particular focus on RWA tokenization, security token offerings (STOs), and stablecoin-based payment and settlement services.

Q5: When was Focus AI’s acquisition of Bdan completed?
The acquisition closed on February 27, 2025, with Focus AI making the final payment to secure its stake, ending a process that began in December of the previous year.