The Web3 landscape in the Asia-Pacific (APAC) region is undergoing rapid transformation, driven by innovation in infrastructure, mobile-first strategies, and cross-sector technological convergence. At the forefront of this evolution, OKX Ventures continues to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of decentralized technologies. Recently, Jeff Ren, Partner at OKX Ventures, moderated a high-impact panel discussion titled “APAC's Investment Potential & Key Drivers for Adoption” during The Aptos Experience event held on September 5, 2024, in Seoul, South Korea.
This gathering brought together top-tier industry leaders to explore the forces accelerating Web3 adoption across APAC—a region increasingly recognized as a global hub for blockchain innovation.
Exploring the Future of Web3 in APAC
The panel featured Mo Shaik, CEO and Co-Founder of Aptos Labs; James Zhang, Founder of Jambo; and Vincent Park, Head of Investment at IRONGREY. Together with Jeff Ren’s expert moderation, the conversation delved into the strategic developments fueling growth in one of the world’s most dynamic tech markets.
As Web3 transitions from niche experimentation to mainstream integration, the APAC region stands out due to its tech-savvy population, supportive developer ecosystems, and increasing government engagement with digital asset frameworks.
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The Critical Role of Infrastructure in Web3 Growth
One of the central themes discussed was the foundational importance of robust blockchain infrastructure. Panelists agreed that scalable, secure, and high-performance Layer 1 solutions are essential for enabling next-generation decentralized applications (dApps).
Aptos, a proof-of-stake blockchain known for its Move programming language and high throughput, was highlighted as a leading example of infrastructure built for mass adoption. Its ability to support low-latency transactions makes it ideal for real-world use cases—from gaming to decentralized finance (DeFi).
Moreover, strong infrastructure directly empowers application-layer innovation. Projects like the JamboPhone and OKX Wallet were cited as practical implementations that leverage advanced backend systems to deliver seamless user experiences. Without reliable chains like Aptos, such user-centric tools would struggle to scale effectively.
Bridging Web2 Users to Web3 Through Accessible Hardware
A major barrier to Web3 adoption remains usability. Many potential users find wallets, seed phrases, and gas fees intimidating. To address this, Jambo introduced an innovative solution: a $99 smartphone preloaded with Web3 apps, targeting emerging markets in Southeast Asia.
James Zhang explained how this device lowers entry barriers by integrating blockchain functionality into everyday mobile use—effectively bridging the gap between traditional internet users (Web2) and decentralized platforms (Web3). By combining affordable hardware with intuitive software design, Jamos aims to onboard millions who have never interacted with crypto before.
This strategy aligns with broader industry efforts to prioritize user experience over technical complexity—a shift critical for achieving true mass adoption.
Cultivating Developer Talent in Korea and Beyond
Another key takeaway was the importance of developer engagement, particularly among younger generations. Mo Shaik emphasized Aptos Labs’ active outreach programs in South Korea, where they collaborate with universities, host hackathons, and provide grants to student-led blockchain initiatives.
South Korea has long been a leader in tech adoption, with high internet penetration and a vibrant startup culture. By nurturing local talent, Aptos and other protocols can ensure a steady pipeline of innovation tailored to regional needs—while also contributing to global Web3 progress.
Jeff Ren noted that OKX Ventures actively supports similar initiatives worldwide, investing not only in technology but also in communities that drive long-term ecosystem health.
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The Convergence of AI and Web3 Technologies
The panel also explored one of the most exciting frontiers in tech today: the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) with Web3. While AI models generate powerful insights and content, they often rely on centralized data sources—a point of vulnerability.
By contrast, Web3 offers decentralized data storage and permissionless access layers that can enhance AI transparency and security. Panelists discussed how combining these technologies could lead to verifiable AI outputs, tamper-proof training datasets, and new business models where users control their own data.
However, they also acknowledged regulatory challenges—especially around data privacy and model accountability. A balanced approach that promotes innovation while ensuring compliance will be essential moving forward.
Regional Investment Trends and Strategic Focus
Vincent Park from IRONGREY shared insights into the firm’s investment philosophy, which spans both infrastructure and application layers across APAC. He expressed strong confidence in the region’s potential to produce groundbreaking Web3 projects, citing growing regulatory clarity in jurisdictions like Singapore, Japan, and South Korea.
This optimism is backed by action: earlier in 2024, OKX Ventures and Jambo announced a strategic partnership focused on expanding digital economy access in emerging markets through integrated Web3 and mobile technologies. Additionally, OKX Ventures and the Aptos Foundation launched a $10 million fund dedicated to growing the Aptos ecosystem.
These moves signal a long-term commitment to building sustainable value—not just speculative gains—in the region’s blockchain space.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is OKX Ventures?
A: OKX Ventures is the investment arm of OKX, a leading global Web3 technology company. It focuses on funding innovative blockchain startups, supporting technological advancement, and fostering ecosystem development worldwide.
Q: What was discussed at The Aptos Experience panel?
A: The panel explored key drivers of Web3 adoption in the APAC region, including infrastructure development, mobile-first onboarding strategies, AI integration, and developer community building.
Q: Why is APAC important for Web3 growth?
A: The region boasts a large, tech-literate population, strong mobile penetration, active developer communities, and increasing regulatory support—making it a prime environment for blockchain innovation.
Q: How does the JamboPhone help onboard new users?
A: The $99 JamboPhone comes pre-installed with Web3 applications and simplifies wallet management, making it easier for first-time users in Southeast Asia to enter the digital economy securely.
Q: Is there funding available for Aptos-based projects?
A: Yes—OKX Ventures and the Aptos Foundation have jointly launched a $10 million fund to support developers building on the Aptos blockchain.
Q: What role does AI play in the future of Web3?
A: AI can enhance content creation and data analysis within decentralized systems, especially when combined with secure, transparent data access enabled by blockchain technology.
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Final Thoughts
The conversation at The Aptos Experience underscores a clear trend: the center of gravity in Web3 innovation is shifting toward APAC. With strategic investments, user-centric design, and cross-technology collaboration, the region is poised to lead the next phase of decentralized development.
As Jeff Ren and fellow panelists demonstrated, success won’t come from technology alone—but from ecosystems that combine infrastructure, accessibility, talent development, and vision.
For entrepreneurs, investors, and developers alike, now is the time to engage deeply with the opportunities emerging across Asia-Pacific.
Core Keywords:
Web3 adoption, APAC investment potential, blockchain infrastructure, AI and Web3 integration, developer engagement, Aptos blockchain, mobile-first onboarding