South Korea’s crypto market has reached a new milestone, with over 16 million users holding exchange accounts. This represents nearly 32% of the country’s population, surpassing the number of stock investors5. The rapid adoption of digital assets highlights a shift in financial preferences among South Korean investors.
The surge in crypto adoption was fueled by post-election momentum and increasing institutional interest. Following Donald Trump’s victory in the U.S. presidential election, over 500,000 South Koreans opened new crypto accounts, pushing the total past 16 million.
Industry officials predict that the number could reach 20 million by year-end, further solidifying South Korea’s position as a major player in the global crypto market.
Regulatory Support and Market Expansion
Despite concerns about market saturation, analysts believe South Korea’s crypto sector still has room for growth. The country’s regulatory framework has evolved to support digital asset innovation while ensuring investor protection. The government has implemented strict anti-money laundering measures and mandatory real-name verification for exchange accounts, creating a more secure trading environment.
South Korea’s crypto market is not limited to retail investors. A recent report revealed that 20% of South Korean public officials hold cryptocurrency, with some high-ranking government representatives disclosing significant holdings. This level of institutional participation suggests a growing acceptance of digital assets within the country’s financial ecosystem.
Shogun Lin
