Primary Regulator: FSC/FSS
Policy Events Tracked: 10
Last Updated: February 25, 2026
Q: What is the current crypto regulatory status in South Korea?
A: South Korea is actively developing its cryptocurrency regulatory framework under FSC/FSS. We track 10 policy events for this jurisdiction.
Q: Do I need a license to operate a crypto exchange in South Korea?
A: Yes, most crypto-related activities in South Korea require licensing from FSC/FSS. See our policy tracker for specific requirements.
Q: What are the latest regulatory developments?
A: See the timeline below for the most recent policy events affecting South Korea.
South Korea's Financial Services Commission (FSC) firmly reconfirms controversial plan to cap major shareholder stakes at 15-20% for cryptocurrency exchanges. The Digital Asset Basic Act also mandates bank-led consortiums holding 50%+ stakes, strict liability rules for exchanges, and mandatory quarterly external audits. Implementation expected over 12-18 months, potentially reducing active exchanges from 35 to 15-20 compliant operators.
Pantera Capital-backed Solana infrastructure firm announces major APAC staking network buildout. Construction begins immediately with performance optimization and new technology integration planned for H2 2026. Move signals growing institutional interest in APAC-based validator infrastructure and staking services.
South Korea crypto tax plan delayed for the fourth time as the country faces regulatory paralysis. The repeated postponements highlight ongoing political uncertainty and industry pushback on the proposed 20% tax on crypto gains above 2.5 million won.
South Korea FSC lifts 9-year ban on corporate crypto trading. Approximately 3,500 companies and professional investors now permitted to trade top 20 cryptocurrencies by market cap on regulated exchanges. Strict 5% annual equity capital investment cap limits risk exposure. Move is part of broader digital growth strategy and expected to increase market liquidity.
South Korea's Financial Supervisory Service grants critical exemption allowing crypto exchanges to delay market integrity reporting requirements. FSS continues AI-powered VISTA platform upgrades for real-time manipulation detection.
Korea Blockchain Association submitted formal letter to FSC on February 11, 2026 outlining concerns with proposed ownership caps for crypto exchange shareholders. Industry group represents major players in South Korea crypto sector and is pushing for regulatory reconsideration.
South Korea's Financial Supervisory Service (FSS) announces stricter crypto regulations following Bithumb's accidental $44B Bitcoin giveaway. FSS calls for resolution of 'ghost coins' issue before cryptocurrencies can become legacy financial assets.
Bithumb accidentally sent 620,000 BTC ($44B) to 249 users. FSC convened emergency meeting, announced on-site inspections of crypto exchanges.
South Korean regulators deploy AI-powered surveillance systems to monitor cryptocurrency markets for manipulation and fraud in real-time.
Virtual Asset User Protection Act takes effect with enhanced investor protections.