The integration of blockchain technology into mainstream digital platforms continues to accelerate, and one of the most notable developments in recent years is LINE’s launch of its proprietary cryptocurrency, LINK, on the BITMAX digital asset exchange. This move marks a significant milestone in LINE’s broader vision to build a decentralized ecosystem powered by user engagement and tokenized rewards.
👉 Discover how blockchain-powered rewards are reshaping digital platforms.
What Is LINK and Why It Matters
LINK (ticker: LN) is a cryptocurrency issued by LINE TECH PLUS PTE. LTD., a subsidiary of the popular messaging giant LINE. With a total supply capped at 1 billion tokens, LINK was designed to incentivize user participation across LINE’s growing suite of blockchain-based services. Of the total supply, 800 million tokens are allocated to reward users who contribute to the growth of LINE’s ecosystem, while the remaining 200 million are held as reserves by the issuing company.
LINK operates on LINE Blockchain, a private, permissioned blockchain network formerly known as LINK Chain. Unlike public chains like Ethereum or Bitcoin, LINE Blockchain is optimized for scalability and speed, enabling seamless integration with LINE’s massive user base—over 84 million monthly active users in Japan alone.
This strategic design allows LINE to offer fast, low-cost transactions while maintaining control over network governance—ideal for mass adoption scenarios where reliability and user experience are paramount.
BITMAX: Japan’s Gateway to Crypto via LINE
Launched in September 2019, BITMAX is a regulated cryptocurrency exchange operating in Japan under the oversight of the Kanto Local Finance Bureau. It stands out by offering direct access through the LINE app, making it one of the most accessible crypto trading platforms for everyday users.
Starting August 6, 2020, BITMAX began supporting LINK/LN trading pairs, becoming the first Japanese exchange to list LINE’s native token. The platform currently supports trading in six major cryptocurrencies:
- Bitcoin (BTC)
- Ethereum (ETH)
- Ripple (XRP)
- Bitcoin Cash (BCH)
- Litecoin (LTC)
- LINK (LN)
Users can trade LINK against Japanese yen, facilitating easy entry and exit from the digital asset market using familiar fiat currency.
To start using BITMAX, users simply tap the exchange icon within the LINE Wallet interface, complete identity verification (via photo ID and bank account linkage or smartphone authentication), and begin trading. There are no account opening fees, though transaction spreads and withdrawal fees apply.
👉 Learn how seamless crypto access is driving mass adoption.
Building the LINE Token Economy
In 2018, LINE unveiled its Token Economy vision—a decentralized ecosystem where users are rewarded for their engagement with dApps (decentralized applications) built on LINE Blockchain. The core idea is simple: the more value users create—through content creation, social interactions, or service usage—the more LINK they earn.
This creates a virtuous cycle:
- Users engage with dApps →
- Earn LINK tokens based on contribution →
- Increased engagement drives app growth →
- Higher demand for LINK →
- Potential appreciation in token value →
- Greater incentive for continued participation
By aligning user incentives with platform growth, LINE aims to foster a self-sustaining digital economy where both developers and users benefit.
Third-party developers can now build on this foundation through LINE Blockchain Developers, an open-source platform that provides tools, APIs, and documentation for creating dApps on LINE Blockchain. This initiative signals LINE’s commitment to expanding its ecosystem beyond internal services.
Key Features of LINK at a Glance
- Name: LINK
- Symbol: LN
- Issuer: LINE TECH PLUS PTE. LTD.
- Blockchain: LINE Blockchain (private chain)
- Max Supply: 1,000,000,000 LINK
- Use Case: Reward mechanism within dApps; tradable asset on BITMAX
Real-time data on token distribution and transaction activity is publicly available via the LINE Blockchain Explorer, promoting transparency and trust in the system.
Core Keywords & SEO Optimization
To ensure maximum visibility and relevance for search engines and users alike, the following core keywords have been naturally integrated throughout this article:
- LINK cryptocurrency
- BITMAX exchange
- LINE Blockchain
- token economy
- dApp rewards
- LINK token listing
- blockchain ecosystem
- crypto trading Japan
These terms reflect high-intent queries related to digital asset adoption, decentralized applications, and regional crypto market developments.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Where can I buy LINK cryptocurrency?
A: LINK is available for trading on BITMAX, a Japan-based cryptocurrency exchange accessible directly through the LINE app. Only Japanese residents aged 20–74 with a verified LINE account can open an account and trade.
Q: Is LINK built on Ethereum or its own blockchain?
A: LINK runs on LINE Blockchain, a proprietary private blockchain developed by LINE. It is not an ERC-20 token and does not operate on the Ethereum network.
Q: How many LINK tokens are in circulation?
A: The total supply of LINK is capped at 1 billion tokens. The exact circulating supply varies over time as tokens are distributed to users through rewards programs. Current distribution data can be viewed on the LINE Blockchain Explorer.
Q: Can I use LINK outside of Japan?
A: While BITMAX serves Japanese users, other international exchanges may list LINK in the future. For now, global access is limited, but the underlying blockchain infrastructure supports cross-border use cases.
Q: What is the difference between BITMAX and BITBOX?
A: BITBOX was LINE’s original exchange for markets outside Japan, launched in 2018. It was later replaced by BITFRONT in early 2020. BITMAX is the Japan-specific exchange integrated into the LINE app and regulated under Japanese financial laws.
Q: How does LINE plan to grow its blockchain ecosystem?
A: Through the LINE Blockchain Developers program, third-party developers are encouraged to build dApps on LINE Blockchain. These apps will use LINK as a reward token, expanding utility and driving organic demand.
👉 Explore how developer ecosystems power next-gen blockchain platforms.
About LVC Corporation and LINE TECH PLUS
LVC Corporation, headquartered in Tokyo, serves as the holding company overseeing LINE’s crypto brokerage and blockchain initiatives. Registered with Japan’s Financial Services Agency (Registration No. 00017), LVC plays a central role in shaping regulatory-compliant digital asset services.
Meanwhile, LINE TECH PLUS PTE. LTD., based in Singapore, is responsible for issuing and managing the LINK token. Founded in April 2018, it works closely with LVC to advance LINE’s long-term blockchain strategy.
Together, these entities form the backbone of LINE’s ambition to become a leading player in Asia’s digital asset landscape.
Final Thoughts
The listing of LINK on BITMAX is more than just another crypto exchange launch—it represents a bold step toward mainstream blockchain adoption. By leveraging its vast user base, integrating crypto into everyday apps, and rewarding real user behavior, LINE is pioneering a new model of digital engagement.
As decentralized economies evolve, platforms that successfully align user incentives with technological innovation will lead the next wave of growth. With LINK and its expanding ecosystem, LINE is positioning itself at the forefront of this transformation.
Whether you're a developer, investor, or everyday user, the rise of token-powered platforms like LINE offers exciting opportunities to participate in the future of digital value exchange.