- South Korea’s Financial Services Commission will introduce institutional cryptocurrency investment guidelines by the third quarter of 2025.
- The regulator confirmed its plan during a meeting with cryptocurrency industry experts on Wednesday.
- The guidelines will establish standards for institutional investors, including trading rules, disclosure requirements, and risk management protocols.
South Korea’s Financial Services Commission (FSC) will introduce detailed guidelines for institutional cryptocurrency investment by the third quarter of 2025. The regulator confirmed this plan during a meeting with crypto industry experts on Wednesday. The guidelines will outline standards for institutional investors, including trading rules, disclosure requirements, and risk management protocols.
FSC to Issue Investment Guidelines for Institutions
The FSC is progressing with a structured approach to institutional investment in digital assets. The regulator intends to release investment guidelines for public companies and professional investors in the third quarter. Meanwhile, non-profit organizations and cryptocurrency exchanges will receive their guidelines earlier, with a target rollout in April.
In January, the FSC announced its plan to lift restrictions that have prevented institutions from investing in digital assets. The latest announcement reinforces the country’s shift toward integrating crypto assets into traditional finance. With institutional involvement, the South Korean crypto market is expected to see increased liquidity and stability.
Regulator Pushes for Stronger Oversight and Security
The FSC has urged banks and cryptocurrency exchanges to enhance their anti-money laundering (AML) and cybersecurity measures. Local regulations require crypto users to verify accounts with real-name bank accounts, ensuring better transparency. The commission emphasized the need for robust security protocols to prevent illicit activities and hacking incidents.
FSC Vice Chairman Kim So-young highlighted the necessity of clear best practices for institutional crypto investments. He acknowledged that global crypto regulations are evolving, especially with the U.S. administration under Donald Trump accelerating policy discussions. The upcoming guidelines will focus on transparency, compliance, and investor protection in digital asset markets.
South Korea Expands Crypto Regulatory Framework
The FSC is working on the second phase of its crypto regulatory framework, which will cover stablecoins and crypto business regulations. The first phase of the law took effect last year, setting rules for cryptocurrency service providers. The second phase will introduce additional measures to regulate digital asset transactions and safeguard investors.
The regulator has not provided an update on local spot cryptocurrency exchange-traded funds (ETFs), despite previous reports suggesting a review. However, market analysts expect further developments as institutional adoption increases. South Korea’s proactive regulatory stance signals a major shift in its approach to digital assets.
The country remains one of the largest cryptocurrency markets, with millions actively trading digital assets. Institutional participation could further drive growth, adding credibility and stability to the industry. The upcoming guidelines mark a significant step in integrating crypto into South Korea’s financial system.