Purpose Blockchain technology is becoming important in the fourth industrial revolution, but standardization of technologies is not keeping up with the pace. Therefore, this paper focused on defining what blochchain technology is, and analyzed technological trends using redefined concepts.
Methods This research conducted a technical redefining process for blockchain technology, and suggested three types of blockchain technology: core, extended, and general. We used patent co-classification and network analysis for each technology groups.
Results Blockchain technology has been evolved from network-based technology to the data privacy and payment-application, recently focusing on data applications. Machine learning technology is actively applied, and many different industries such as healthcare applications also turned out to be increasing with respect to the blockchain technology.
Conclusion This study provide important clues in defining the blockchain technology, analyzing the technological trend, and identifying possible innovation chances in blockchain technologies.