Upbit Parent Dunamu Launches Layer-2 Blockchain GIWA

At the 2025 Upbit Developers Conference in Seoul, Dunamu, the parent of Upbit, introduced GIWA, a Layer-2 blockchain on Ethereum’s Optimism OP Stack, marking a pivotal expansion in blockchain infrastructure.

The launch signifies Upbit’s strategy to strengthen web3 capabilities, impacting digital asset and DeFi markets by enhancing enterprise Blockchains, which may influence Ethereum-based activity and market dynamics.

Dunamu has unveiled GIWA, a new Layer-2 blockchain leveraging Ethereum’s Optimism OP Stack. This announcement was made during the 2025 Upbit Developers Conference in Seoul, highlighting Dunamu’s ambitions to expand its blockchain solutions.

Expanding Blockchain Horizons

Oh Kyung-seok, CEO of Dunamu, emphasized GIWA’s enterprise focus during the launch. This move indicates Dunamu’s strategic focus on expanding into digital asset infrastructure and DeFi markets, with cross-chain asset support being a significant feature.

Leveraging Ethereum’s Security

GIWA’s introduction is poised to impact financial sectors by providing robust infrastructure for Web3 technologies. The emphasis is on enterprise-grade solutions that cater to evolving industry needs.

The blockchain leverages Ethereum’s security and supports EVM-based ecosystems. Efforts to attract multi-chain developers and users are evident, aiming to integrate GIWA into existing blockchain environments for broader ecosystem interaction. Dunamu’s Official Statement said,

“GIWA Layer-2 runs on Optimism’s OP Stack, prioritizes 1-second block times, EVM compatibility, and broad cross-chain wallet support.”

Competition and Implications

Dunamu’s strategy places GIWA in direct competition with networks like Base and Arbitrum. The anticipated compatibility is expected to influence liquidity and activity across supported chains.

The potential implications for DeFi and regulatory landscapes are substantial. GIWA’s planned features could trigger shifts in liquidity dynamics and economic activity, akin to prior Layer-2 introductions across the industry. Oh Kyung-seok, CEO of Dunamu, stated, “GIWA will serve the financial sector,” confirming the platform’s enterprise focus.