Yigit Taha OZTURK 
In a region already buzzing with digital innovation, South Korea is positioning itself to become a dominant force in the crypto economy. A shift in political leadership has triggered a wave of regulatory reform that could reshape the market entirely.
New President Acts Fast On Stablecoin Promise
Following his recent election win, President Lee Jae-myung has wasted no time delivering on campaign pledges around crypto. His ruling Democratic Party has introduced the “Digital Asset Basic Act,” aiming to permit the issuance of domestic stablecoins and foster a transparent, competitive crypto landscape.
Under the proposal, local companies will be allowed to issue stablecoins if they have a minimum equity capital of 500 million won ($368,000). Issuers must also maintain reserves to back the coins and receive approval from the Financial Services Commission, South Korea’s top financial regulator.
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The legislation seeks to legitimize stablecoin markets and drive broader adoption by ensuring regulatory clarity and investor protection.
Crypto Gains Mass Appeal Across South Korea
Interest in Bitcoin and stablecoins has soared in South Korea. In Q1 of 2024 alone, transactions involving major U.S. dollar stablecoins totaled 57 trillion won ($42 billion) across the country’s five leading exchanges, according to Bank of Korea data.
An estimated one-third of the South Korean population—around 18 million people—is now involved in the crypto market. Building on this momentum, President Lee is also pushing for Bitcoin ETF approvals and the inclusion of Bitcoin in the national pension fund’s investment strategy.
However, these ambitions face resistance from the Bank of Korea, which argues that private stablecoins could undermine the effectiveness of monetary policy.
Crypto Law Boosts Stocks, But Not Without Skepticism
Anticipation around the bill has already impacted financial markets. Shares in digital wallet provider KakaoPay surged up to 45% in five days following the announcement. Still, JPMorgan analysts caution that the rally may be premature, with real benefits from the legislation yet to materialize.
Despite the uncertainty, South Korea’s proactive legislative push sets a bold precedent in Asia’s ongoing crypto regulatory race.
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