Oh Sang-rok, CEO of Hyperithm, is the only South Korean invited to a private dinner with Donald Trump on May 22, due to his significant holdings of the cryptocurrency $TRUMP. His firm, which focuses on institutional crypto investments, has successfully navigated market volatility and continues to advocate for better regulation of digital assets in South Korea.
On May 22, a South Korean cryptocurrency CEO will participate in an exclusive dinner hosted by former US President Donald Trump. This event, set at Trump National Golf Club in Washington, will be attended by only 25 people globally, all selected based on their holdings of Trump’s cryptocurrency, $TRUMP. Notably, Oh Sang-rok, CEO of the Seoul-based firm Hyperithm, is the sole South Korean representative at the gathering.
Oh has amassed a significant amount of $TRUMP, estimated at around $3 million, placing him as the 13th largest holder of the coin. The $TRUMP currency is categorized as a meme coin, a type of cryptocurrency that arguably lacks tangible utility but draws attention through viral trends, celebrity endorsements, and social media. Unlike more established cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin, the value of meme coins can be quite volatile, rising sharply in popularity and then plummeting when interest wanes.
Distinct from many typical meme coin investors, Oh Sang-rok is not known for retail trading tendencies. He possesses a solid pedigree in finance, having formerly worked in mergers and acquisitions at Morgan Stanley’s Seoul branch. In 2018, he co-founded Hyperithm with the objective of establishing a crypto investment firm that prioritizes stability and discipline over impulsive trading strategies. His company has notably managed to remain profitable even amidst severe market downturns such as those seen during the FTX and Terra-Luna crises.
Unlike others in the South Korean crypto space, which are often tied to domestic exchanges or retail activities, Hyperithm has strategically positioned itself in Japan—a region where institutional investing in cryptocurrencies is legally supported. This move has opened doors for the firm to collaborate with banks, securities firms, and funds across both Asia and the US. Moreover, it has garnered support from prominent entities like Coinbase Ventures and GS Futures, adding credibility to its operations.
Oh has publicly expressed his concerns regarding South Korea’s sluggish advancements in cryptocurrency regulation. He advocates for the recognition of digital assets as integral components of South Korea’s high-value economy. Earlier this year, he articulated his vision in an interview, asserting that crypto should be considered a fundamental asset class, akin to traditional equities.
