South Korea’s leading presidential candidate, Lee Jae-myung, has promised to legalize spot Bitcoin ETFs if elected.
The pledge came via a Facebook post on Tuesday, where Lee outlined plans to modernize the country’s financial system and improve access to digital assets.
“I will introduce spot virtual asset ETFs and create an integrated monitoring system for safer investment,” he wrote.
A Crypto-Forward Vision Aimed at Youth
Lee, representing the Democratic Party of Korea, said the move is part of a broader effort to support the country’s younger generation. In addition to crypto reforms, he proposed a new interest-bearing savings program and a financial planning initiative designed specifically for young South Koreans.
“Youth struggles are not personal failings,” Lee stated. “They reflect structural issues caused by a lack of opportunity.”
His message: young people need more tools to build wealth and secure their future — and access to crypto markets is part of that solution.
ETF Ban Still in Place, but Lee Seeks to Change That
Currently, South Korea’s Financial Services Commission (FSC) does not allow spot crypto ETFs. In 2023, the regulator said that Bitcoin and other digital assets lack legal standing as underlying instruments for exchange-traded products.
Lee’s proposal would directly challenge that position. He aims to revise regulations and push forward a legal framework to support crypto ETF offerings inside the country.
Election Nears With Lee as the Favorite
The presidential election is set for June 3, following the impeachment of former President Yoon Suk-yeol last month. Lee leads the polls with an approval rating near 50%.
On decentralized prediction platform Polymarket, bettors are giving Lee an 87% chance of winning — based on over $80 million in wagers.
If elected, Lee’s win could mark a turning point in South Korea’s crypto policy, signaling a shift toward greater adoption and regulatory clarity.
Kosta Gushterov
Reporter at Coindoo
Kosta has been a part of the team since 2021 and has solidified his position with a thirst for knowledge, incredible dedication to his work and a “detective-like” mindset. He not only covers a wide range of trending topics, he also creates reviews, PR articles and educational content. His work has also been referenced by other news outlets.
Source: https://coindoo.com/south-koreas-presidential-frontrunner-pledges-legal-spot-bitcoin-etfs/