It's a Korean MMO, what do you expect? This is how they work, and is absolutely nothing new. I think Elyon had over 30 different currencies with more than 50 different types of "upgrades" you could do. They introduce a myriad of upgrade systems all using different currencies obtained in different ways throughout everything. Eventually the upgrade costs get so high you feel forced to relieve the time gate by opening your wallet. Then EVERY system starts working like this. The best is when they start doing things like releasing things like collectable stuff.
LA is doing well, simply because they have taken the approach to give way, way, way more "free" time before they bitch slap you with a paywall. And you all can bet your ass you're going to hit it. In 2 years, this game will be dead as shit in the West, just like every other Korean MMO.