Lambda256 CTO Nam Ki-hoon speaks to The Korea Times at Lambda256's headquarters in Seoul, Nov. 7. Courtesy of Lambda256
Blockchain is not limited to coin transactions. It also serves as a repository for data. Once recorded, the data becomes permanently unalterable. Over time, the volume of this data has grown exponentially, now reaching hundreds of millions of records.
Lambda256, a blockchain subsidiary of Dunamu, Korea's leading cryptocurrency exchange operator, raised an intriguing question: Can we uncover new insights from this vast reservoir of data?
"Blockchain data is immense and challenging to interpret. Even with visualization, you can only view fragmented parts, which makes it difficult to gain a comprehensive understanding," Nam Ki-hoon, Lambda256's chief technology officer, told The Korea Times in an interview. "That's where we see AI stepping in — offering reports, providing recommendations or generating detailed explanations."
To address this, the company is developing Clair, a new product that leverages knowledge graph technology.
Instead of simply accumulating blockchain data, Clair integrates on-chain and off-chain data to uncover hidden patterns and relationships. By visually clarifying transaction flows, it helps businesses make more efficient decisions. Moreover, the data generated through this process is repurposed for AI learning, transforming Clair into a platform that supports predictive analytics and strategic decision-making.
In short, Lambda256 envisions transforming raw blockchain data into meaningful information, actionable knowledge, and, ultimately, insightful wisdom.
"In logistics, for example, if electronic certifications or distribution routes are recorded on the blockchain, they can serve as highly reliable evidence," Nam said. "When visualized as graphs, it becomes possible to analyze logistics flows and even predict how to optimize them."
He added, "Similarly, in cases like bank transactions or money laundering, AI can detect suspicious patterns and explain trends, automating what would otherwise require manual effort."
Lambda256 began developing Clair in June and unveiled the concept at the Upbit D Conference on Thursday. While Clair is expected to launch next year, specific release dates have not yet been confirmed.
Clair marks Nam's third major program since joining Lambda256 in April. In addition to Clair, Lambda256 launched Nodit and Datasquare this year — services designed to establish infrastructure for blockchain data analysis. Nam was appointed chief technology officer in August.
Nam brings two decades of experience in the tech industry, having worked at major companies such as Kakao, Coupang and Samsung Electronics before transitioning to blockchain. When asked how he first became interested in blockchain, Nam said he views programming as a discipline with a universal, logical structure that transcends technological trends.
"Since 1999, I've been a developer," he said. "Even as technologies evolve, the fundamental essence of programming remains the same. That perspective continues to fascinate me."
At Lambda256, Nam's overarching goal is to activate and expand the blockchain ecosystem.
"Our aim is to go beyond offering blockchain node APIs. We want to establish ourselves as a company that drives the broader adoption of blockchain technology," Nam said.
"By creating meaningful use cases and continuously developing new technologies, we hope to maximize blockchain's value and support its widespread adoption."