South Korean metaverse platform ZEP has unveiled a crucial alliance with the global Layer 1 blockchain platform, NEAR Protocol. This move underlines ZEP’s strategy to leverage NEAR Protocol’s reliable and easy-to-use network to partner with major IPs and onboard new users.
NEAR Protocol is known for its custom-built blockchain network, which is ideal for large-scale, user-centric services. It has shown solid growth among Layer 1 blockchains this year, with its applications consistently ranking highly DappRadar. This uptick points to NEAR Protocol’s reliable infrastructure and increasing appeal in the field of blockchain applications.
ZEP’s trajectory
ZEP was created from a collaboration between Supercat and NAVER Z’s Zepeto. It has shown remarkable progress since its beta launch on November 30, 2021. The platform has 1.3 million monthly active users and 8.3 million users for 2021, attracting domestic and international stakeholders. Moreover, with a strong base in the South Korean market, ZEP plans to enter Japan and Southeast Asia later this year.
Mark Mi, Gaming Director of NEAR Protocol, highlighted the potential benefits of the partnership. The agreement will help expand NEAR’s ecosystem into the metaverse. The plan includes the integration of various gaming dApps and other content from NEAR to shape ZEP’s growth in Web3.
According to Mark: “This partnership with ZEP is an important opportunity to expand the NEAR ecosystem into the new realm of the metaverse.” He adds: “We will continue to strive to expose NEAR users to different content in different areas. Through collaboration with dApps in content and gaming based on NEAR, we will support ZEP’s business expansion in the Web3 domain.”
Towards Web3 integration
ZEP provides a dynamic virtual environment that allows users to seamlessly navigate, interact and interact within a vibrant community. It enables the creation of virtual chat rooms that mirror real environments, such as offices, classrooms, social events and business spaces.
On the ZEP platform, users also have the ability to personalize their experience by customizing their avatars, which reflect their unique identity. The platform enriches user interaction by integrating links, documents, videos and interactive game elements.
The collaboration between NEAR Protocol and ZEP aims to discover new business models and emphasize the creation of Web3-oriented features. This will improve the convenience and experience for developers and users. Collaboration between ZEP and its partners will enhance user experience in the ZEP metaverse by integrating Web3 technology for the distribution and issuance of various digital assets.