XRP Activity Thrives in South Korea | BTC and ETH Lag Behind
Edited By
Maria Gonzalez
February 16, 2026 — In a surprising turn, XRP has surged ahead of Bitcoin (BTC) and Ethereum (ETH) in South Korea's cryptocurrency market. This notable uptick in XRP transactions has sparked discussions among people, with some questioning its relevance.
XRP's Growing Presence
Recent data indicates that XRP is seeing unprecedented activity in South Korea, overshadowing BTC and ETH. This shift raises questions about the factors influencing this trend. "XRP is not even a person," one comment bluntly stated, reflecting skepticism in certain circles.
Controversy Surrounds XRP
The ongoing debate surrounding XRP stems from its status. Some individuals perceive it as a lackluster alternative to other cryptocurrencies. Concerns over its utility linger. "One of the most useless tokens along with BTC," noted a user, hinting at varied opinions about its worth.
Despite these negative sentiments, XRP continues to capture attention, possibly due to its unique features. Curiously, why has XRP become the focus when other coins are traditionally seen as more valuable?
Market Insights and Commentary
XRP's local dominance is mainly attributed to increased trading and investor interest.
This development raises eyebrows, especially since many still question its viability.
"Why does it get so much attention?" – Anonymous commenter
Key Observations
🔍 XRP outpaces BTC and ETH in South Korea, indicating a shift.
📊 Diverse opinions emerge, showcasing both support and criticism.
🤔 Community sentiment mixed, reflecting both excitement and doubt.
As XRP continues to thrive, its future remains uncertain. Will it prove to be a valuable asset in the long run, or is it merely a temporary phenomenon? Only time will tell.
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For more insights into the cryptocurrency market, visit CoinDesk.
This article is part of our ongoing coverage on cryptocurrency trends in 2026.
Predictions on XRP's Future in South Korea
XRP’s recent momentum in South Korea suggests a possible continuation of this trend, with some experts estimating a strong chance—around 70%—that the token could maintain its lead in trading volumes over Bitcoin and Ethereum in the coming months. This shift could be fueled by growing investor interest and potential developments in regulatory clarity surrounding XRP. If XRP manages to enhance its functionality and partnerships, there might be a growing belief in its long-term viability. However, a shift in market sentiment could also lead to a quick reversal, making the next few weeks critical for its performance in a volatile market.
A Different Lens on Market Changes
Consider the rise of the smartphone in the early 2000s, where once-dominant brands quickly fell behind as a new player emerged. Similar to how the BlackBerry and Nokia phones struggled against the iPhone's innovation, XRP's current success could resonate with historical shifts in consumer preferences. Just as some dismissed the iPhone as a novelty at first, current skepticism surrounding XRP might not fully account for its potential to reshape the market if it delivers unique features that captivate people's needs.