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A16z Crypto Opens First Asia Office in Seoul, Names Sungmo Park APAC Lead

The Seoul hub focuses on go-to-market support for founders across Asia.

Overview

  • The firm frames the new base as an operating hub that puts teams close to builders and users rather than a lightweight PR presence.
  • South Korea’s market strength—cited as the world’s No. 2 by activity—with nearly one-third of adults owning crypto and exchanges like Upbit leading volume informed the choice of location.
  • The office’s stated priorities are building partnerships, strengthening distribution channels, and accelerating community growth across the region.
  • Sungmo Park, formerly APAC lead at Monad Foundation and a business development leader at Polygon Labs, will serve as Head of APAC go-to-market.
  • A16z points to accelerating regional momentum, citing about $2.36 trillion in Asia-Pacific on-chain value in the 12 months to June 2025 as evidence of the need for a local presence.