While the leading conference at Korea Blockchain Week (KBW) draws the biggest headlines with its star-studded speakers and keynotes, the real heartbeat of the event often lies in its unofficial side events. These gatherings, ranging from intimate developer workshops to exclusive networking mixers, are where genuine connections are forged and the most exciting, grassroots innovation is on display. For anyone serious about making a mark in the global Web3 space, attending the main stage is just the beginning; the side events are where you truly capitalize on your time in Seoul.
This guide will walk you through the dynamic world of KBW’s side events, showing you why they’re just as crucial as the main conference. We’ll break down the different types of events to look out for, provide practical tips on how to navigate them, and, most importantly, show you how to leverage these opportunities to build a lasting presence in the Korean market.
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Why Are KBW Side Events as Important as the Main Conference?
If you only attend the main conference, you’re missing half the story. The official KBW IMPACT conference is excellent for high-level overviews and hearing from industry titans, but it’s often a one-way street of information. In contrast, side events are all about active participation, collaboration, and direct interaction. They provide a more relaxed and focused environment to engage with peers who share your specific interests, whether that’s DeFi, gaming, or NFTs. This is where you can find the core communities and passionate individuals who are building the future, away from the mainstage spotlights.
Side events also offer a crucial glimpse into the real-world ecosystem. They’re hosted by a wide range of projects, from promising startups to established protocols, and often feature deeper technical dives or more candid discussions than you’ll find at the main event. For investors, this provides a unique opportunity for early-stage discovery and due diligence. For builders, it’s a chance to get direct feedback and form partnerships. The atmosphere is less about formal presentations and more about building relationships, making these events a critical component of any successful KBW strategy.
The Different Types of Side Events You Should Know About
To truly make the most of KBW, you need to know what types of side events exist and which ones are right for you. They’re not all created equal, and each serves a unique purpose, catering to different goals from technical deep dives to high-stakes investment opportunities. Knowing what you’re looking for will help you filter through the hundreds of events happening throughout the week and find the ones that offer the most value.
For the Builders: Hackathons and Workshops
For developers and technical founders, these events are your home base. Hackathons are high-energy, competitive environments where teams race to build new projects on a specific blockchain protocol. They’re not just about winning prizes; they are an unparalleled chance to collaborate with talented peers, get direct support from core protocol developers, and quickly turn an idea into a working prototype. Likewise, workshops and builder houses hosted by projects like Sui or Polygon offer hands-on sessions where you can learn about new tools and get your technical questions answered in a small-group setting. These are ideal for anyone looking to go beyond theory and get their hands dirty with the latest technology.
For the Investors: Exclusive Brunches and VC Pitch Sessions
If your goal is to find the next breakout project, focus on the exclusive, invite-only events. Many venture capital firms and major crypto funds host private brunches, dinners, and closed-door pitch sessions. These gatherings are specifically designed for high-level networking and deal flow. While they can be difficult to get into, these events offer a more intimate environment to meet founders and exchange ideas with other investors away from the public eye. They are where serious conversations about funding, market strategy, and strategic partnerships happen, giving you a crucial edge in finding early-stage opportunities.
For Everyone: Networking Mixers and After-Parties
These are the most common and accessible side events, perfect for broadening your network. Networking mixers and social gatherings are a relaxed way to meet a diverse group of people, from journalists and community managers to artists and institutional traders. You’ll find these events hosted by a wide variety of companies, from centralized exchanges to NFT marketplaces all offering a chance to connect over food and drinks. The famous KBW after-parties are also a must-attend, providing a more informal and vibrant setting to build relationships and celebrate the week’s events. They’re a great way to cap off a long day of conferences and connect with people on a more personal level.
The KBW Side Event Calendar: How to Stay Organized
Navigating hundreds of side events can be overwhelming, but with the right strategy, you can make the most of your time. This goes beyond simply showing up. it requires a tactical approach to planning, prioritizing, and executing. A well-organized schedule is the difference between making a few casual connections and building a network that can truly accelerate your project or investment. Here are key steps to stay organized:
Don’t Rely on a Single Source
Many of the most valuable events aren’t on the official KBW website. The key is to be proactive and strategic in your search. A week or two before the event, make it a habit to check various social media channels and event aggregators daily. Platforms like Luma and Eventbrite are excellent for finding independently organized meetups and workshops. Many crypto projects will also announce their side events on their official Twitter or Discord channels, so follow the projects you’re interested in closely to get the inside scoop.
Create a Personalized Schedule
The sheer number of events can lead to decision paralysis. Start by blocking out the main IMPACT conference sessions you absolutely must attend. Then, fill in your calendar with the side events that align with your specific goals. Be realistic about travel time; Seoul’s venues, while well-connected by subway, might be far apart. Prioritize events based on what you want to achieve. Are you an investor looking for new projects? Focus on VC pitch sessions and exclusive brunches. Are you a developer? Look for hackathons and technical workshops.
Be Ready for a Fast-Paced Environment
Have a clear plan before you even arrive in Seoul. This preparation will help you stay focused, avoid feeling overwhelmed, and ensure you’re making the most of every minute. This includes having a digital business card or a scannable QR code ready to share, as exchanging information is often fast-paced. It’s also wise to have a basic understanding of Seoul’s public transportation, as the subway and bus systems are efficient and will be your best friend for navigating the city’s vast landscape.
Bonus Tip: The Art of the RSVP
Many exclusive events, particularly those hosted by major VCs or well-known projects, are invite-only. If you see an event you’re dying to attend, try to network with people from the host company ahead of time through LinkedIn or Twitter. A polite, personalized message explaining your interest and why you would be a valuable addition to their guest list can often open doors to these high-value gatherings.
Top Web3 Trends You’ll See at KBW Side Events
While the main conference provides a broad overview, side events offer a granular look at the most exciting trends shaping the industry. These smaller, more focused gatherings are often the first place new ideas gain traction, and they’re where you’ll get a true sense of what’s next in Web3. This year, the conversations are shifting from theoretical concepts to tangible applications, with a clear focus on bridging the gap between digital assets and the physical world. Keep an eye out for events and discussions centered around these key areas, as they represent the most promising narratives and investment opportunities for 2025.
The Rise of Real-World Asset (RWA) Tokenization
RWA tokenization is one of the hottest topics right now, bridging the gap between traditional finance and blockchain. This trend involves converting tangible assets, like real estate, art, or even credit, into digital tokens on a blockchain. Side events focused on RWA will feature discussions on legal frameworks, technical standards, and the potential for a more liquid and accessible global market. For investors, this is a must-attend topic, as it represents a massive potential for growth and a new frontier for institutional investment. Top financial institutions like BlackRock and HSBC are actively involved in this space, and you can expect side events hosted by these projects to be filled with serious conversations and high-value networking.
AI and Blockchain Integration
The fusion of artificial intelligence and blockchain is set to be a major theme. You’ll find workshops and talks on how AI can be used to improve smart contract security, optimize DeFi protocols, and create more dynamic on-chain experiences. Conversely, blockchain technology is being used to create more transparent and trustworthy AI models. Side events on this topic will attract both AI researchers and blockchain developers, making them a great place to find innovative projects at the intersection of these two fields. The conversation is shifting from theoretical to practical, with projects like Ocean Protocol and SingularityNET showing how this synergy can be used for real-world applications like democratizing access to AI and monetizing data.
DePIN: Decentralizing Physical Infrastructure
DePIN, or Decentralized Physical Infrastructure Networks, is a trend that’s rapidly gaining momentum. These networks use blockchain and token incentives to build and operate real-world infrastructure, such as wireless networks, energy grids, and data storage. Side events dedicated to DePIN will highlight projects building these networks and how they’re creating a more efficient, community-owned alternative to traditional services. This trend is particularly relevant for builders and investors looking for tangible, real-world applications of blockchain technology. Projects like Helium and DIMO are already showing how this model can work, and you can expect to see side events that offer a glimpse into the future of decentralized infrastructure.
How to Maximize Your Networking at Side Events
Networking at side events requires a different approach than at the main conference. It’s less about passively listening to speakers and more about actively engaging with others to build genuine, high-quality connections. To make your interactions meaningful, you need to be strategic and memorable.
Go with a Purpose
Before attending any event, set a clear and specific goal for yourself. Are you looking to find co-founders for your project? Scout for talent to join your team? Or perhaps you want to connect with specific VCs known for investing in your niche? Having a clear purpose will help you focus your conversations and avoid getting lost in small talk. Knowing who you want to meet and what you want to achieve will make every interaction more productive.
The Power of the Introduction
Don’t just walk up to people randomly; this can feel intrusive. Instead, look for a natural entry point. If you’ve both attended a specific talk or are interested in the same project, use that as your opener. A simple “I really enjoyed that last panel on DeFi, what were your thoughts?” can be a great conversation starter. When you meet someone new, try to introduce them to another person in your network, this instantly adds value and makes a positive impression, as you’re acting as a connector.
Listen More Than You Talk
The best networkers are great listeners. Spend more time asking open-ended questions about the other person’s work, their challenges, and their goals. People are naturally more inclined to talk about themselves, and by showing genuine interest, you’ll learn far more than by just giving your elevator pitch. The goal is to understand their needs and see how you might be able to help, not just to sell your own ideas.
Elevate Your Presence
Stand out from the crowd by having a concise and compelling introduction ready. Instead of just saying what you do, focus on the problem you’re solving or the value you create. For example, instead of “I’m a blockchain developer,” try “I’m building a protocol that makes cross-chain transactions 50% faster for DeFi users.” This sparks curiosity and makes you more memorable.
Follow-Up is Key
The work doesn’t end when the event does. Within 24-48 hours, send a personalized follow-up message on LinkedIn or Twitter to everyone you want to stay in touch with. Reference a specific point from your conversation to jog their memory and make the connection feel more personal. This simple act of following up is what turns a brief encounter into a lasting relationship.
Practical Guide: How to Find, Register for, and Navigate Side Events
Finding and attending the right side events requires a proactive and organized approach. Don’t wait until you’re in Seoul to start your search; the best events often fill up quickly. By following these steps, you can ensure you secure your spot at the most valuable gatherings.
How to Find Events
The easiest way to find a comprehensive list of side events is by using event aggregation platforms. Check Luma, Eventbrite, and even dedicated crypto event websites. A few weeks before KBW, many projects and companies will start announcing their events. Follow the official social media accounts of the projects you’re interested in, particularly on Twitter and Discord, as they often post announcements there first. You can also join Telegram groups dedicated to KBW side events, which are often created by community members to share information in real time.
Registering for Side Events
Registration for side events is often separate from the main KBW ticket. Always check the event page for a clear registration link. For exclusive events, you may need an invitation code. If you want to attend a private gathering, try to network with the host organization or a key person involved beforehand to request an invite. Many smaller events might use a simple RSVP form, so be quick to register once you see an announcement.
Navigating Seoul to Attend Events
Seoul’s public transportation is highly efficient, making it easy to travel between different venues. The subway system is the most reliable way to get around. Be sure to download a navigation app like Naver Maps or Kakao Maps, as they are far more accurate for local public transport than Google Maps. Purchase a T-Money card at any convenience store and top it up for seamless travel on subways and buses. For late-night travel, taxis are readily available via the Kakao T app. It’s also a good idea to group events by location in your schedule to minimize travel time and maximize your networking.
A Glimpse into a KBW Week
To give you a clearer picture of what a week at Korea Blockchain Week looks like, here is a preview of some of the key events on the official schedule.
| No | Date | Events | Description | Location |
| 1. | September 20th 2025 | KBW Opening Night “Ultra Korea” | World-class EDM experience that merges high-energy music with blockchain innovation, specifically stablecoin integration, to create a unique celebration marking the beginning of Korea Blockchain Week. | Oil Tank Culture Park |
| 2. | September 23th – 24th 2025 | Main Conference “KBW 2025: IMPACT” | As the heart of Korea Blockchain Week, the “IMPACT” conference is the premier event, bringing together Web3.0 leaders for keynotes, panel sessions, workshops, and project exhibitions, all on the largest and most expansive scale of the week. | Walkerhil Hotels & Resorts |
| 3. | September 25th 2025 | AI WORLD: Unlimited Scalability | “AI WORLD: Unlimited Scalability” is a unique AI-exclusive conference in Korea that gathers leading global experts to reflect on the current state of AI and envision the future of the industry under the theme of ‘Unlimited Scalability’. | Lotte Cinema, Lotte World Tower |
| 4. | September 24th 2025 | KBW X GAIA OFFICIAL AFTERPARTY Feat. Chris Lake | Celebrating the future of Web3, the official KBW 2025 afterparty concludes the week with a special headline performance by renowned DJ Chris Lake, inviting the world’s top innovators and builders to a night of music and networking. | Sevit Floating Island |
Partner with Noji Labs to Capitalize on Your KBW Connections
You’ve successfully navigated the side events, made meaningful connections, and gathered invaluable market insights. Now, the real work begins. Korea Blockchain Week is a critical launchpad for your next venture or investment, but its opportunities can be overwhelming. To truly capitalize on them, you need a partner with deep local expertise and a global perspective. This is where Noji Labs comes in.
We are a team of experts dedicated to helping global businesses, investors, and builders navigate the complexities of the Korean market. Our services go beyond simple consultation; we provide tailored guidance to ensure your success. Our team has a deep understanding of the local ecosystem, from the subtle cultural nuances to the ever-evolving regulatory landscape. We translate your KBW experience into a lasting presence and profitable ventures.
Strategic Consultation: Turning Your Vision into a Market-Ready Plan
Attending KBW will fill you with new ideas and valuable insights. The next step is knowing how to apply them to your business. Noji Labs offers strategic consultation to help you refine your market entry plan for Korea. We analyze the latest trends from KBW and combine them with our deep local market knowledge to help you identify viable opportunities. Whether it’s adapting your product for the Korean audience, navigating regulatory hurdles, or positioning your brand effectively, our team provides a clear, actionable roadmap to transform your vision into a concrete, market-ready strategy.
Due Diligence and Partner Matching: Mitigate Risks, Maximize Returns
In a fast-paced market like Web3, finding the right local partners and projects to invest in can be challenging. Noji Labs specializes in due diligence, helping you vet potential partners and projects you encounter at KBW. We conduct comprehensive research to assess a project’s technology, team, and market fit, ensuring your investments are secure. Furthermore, our extensive network allows us to provide direct networking with key investors and trusted builders in the local ecosystem, saving you time and mitigating risks. We act as your on-the-ground team, connecting you with the most promising opportunities and reliable collaborators in Korea.
Frequently Asked Questions
No, most side events are independently organized and do not require you to have a ticket to the main KBW IMPACT conference. However, some exclusive events may require an invitation or a separate registration fee. Always check the specific event’s details.
The key to finding side events is being proactive. To get a comprehensive view beyond the main conference, you should:
- Engage on Social Media: Follow projects and VCs on Twitter and Discord for real-time announcements and community-driven calendars.
- Check the Official Website: This is where you’ll find the main official side events and those hosted by major partners.
- Leverage Event Platforms: Many community-run events are promoted on platforms like Luma and Eventbrite.
It varies. Many networking mixers and smaller meetups are free to attend, though some may require a simple RSVP. Exclusive brunches or parties, on the other hand, may be invite-only or have a paid entry. Hackathons often require a separate registration fee.
Your Gateway to Seoul’s Web3 Ecosystem
Korea Blockchain Week is more than just an event; it’s a gateway to the future of the digital economy, offering unparalleled opportunities to learn, network, and grow. By strategically attending side events, you position yourself at the heart of global innovation, gaining insights from top minds and connecting with the builders shaping tomorrow’s technology. This is your chance to turn industry knowledge into a real competitive advantage in the Asian market.
For global investors and builders, success in the Korean market requires more than just attending a conference, it requires a deep understanding of the local ecosystem. Our team at Noji Labs is ready to help you translate your KBW experience into a lasting presence and profitable ventures.
