The Korea Internet & Security Agency (KISA) has named companies for “2019 pilot blockchain projects” that would help innovate public services using blockchain technology. The selected companies include blockchain-focused firms like Glosfer and Coinplug and large companies like LG CNS.

The state-run agency said Monday that it had selected 12 blockchain-based pilot projects and 32 companies to conduct these projects. KISA and the Ministry of Science and ICT increased the size of funds for these projects to 8.5 billion won in 12 projects this year from 4 billion won in six projects last year.

The pilot projects include creating a blockchain platform to support defense acquisition (Defense Acquisition Program Administration), a blockchain platform for civil service without certificates (Military Manpower Administration), a blockchain platform for smart tourism in North Jeolla Province (North Jeolla Province), a blockchain-based system for electric vehicles and used batteries (Jeju Special Self-Governing Province) and a blockchain-based REC trading service (Korea Southern Power Co.).

Glosfer, which had developed local currency “Nowon (NW),” will establish a blockchain-based smart tourism platform for North Jeolla Province in cooperation with Jeonju-based software maker Nineis. Coinplug, which is carrying out a variety of blockchain projects with financial companies, will develop a blockchain-based REC trading service with software company NTELS.

KISA and the science ministry will also begin operating the “open blockchain evaluation committee” this year to help spread the effects of pilot projects. This is intended to share the development process of blockchain services and get feedback on improvements.

Noh Myeong-seon, head of the KISA’s internet service support group, said, “Blockchain technology has just entered the phase of full-fledged application. These pilot projects will help bolster the limitations of existing ICT technologies and upgrade the quality of people’s lives by applying diverse convergence technologies to areas closely related to real life.” /hyun@decenter.kr

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