South Korean interest in digital assets is on the rise, with a significant number of retail investors planning to increase their crypto exposure over the coming year.
The findings come as the country’s political leadership signals a regulatory shift that could spur further adoption, particularly through the promotion of won-based stablecoins.
The momentum is not limited to younger investors. The study found that the age group with the largest share of crypto holders was individuals in their 40s, accounting for 31% of all current holders.
Despite growing adoption, concerns around market volatility persist, although only a third of respondents listed security risks as a top concern, even though half store assets on exchange hot wallets.
Interest in cryptocurrency is growing alongside broader market enthusiasm for firms associated with stablecoin development. The trend gained traction following the election of President Lee Jae-myung, who assumed office in early June.
Lawmaker Min Byeong-deok, who served as head of digital assets during Lee’s campaign, echoed these benefits, noting that legal clarity could be a key driver of future economic gains.
In line with this agenda, a new parliamentary proposal would allow domestic firms with a minimum equity capital of 500 million Korean won (approximately $367,000) to issue won-denominated stablecoins.
In contrast, the GENIUS Act does not mandate a minimum equity requirement, although it imposes enhanced oversight on issuers with market capitalizations exceeding $10 billion.
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