South Korea has positioned itself to become one of the strictest digital-asset watchdogs in the world, revealing plans to seal off loopholes that have allowed criminals to move illicit funds through cryptocurrency.
Key Takeaways
- South Korea will require identity verification for all crypto transfers, not just those above 1 million won.
- Citizens will be blocked from sending funds to high-risk foreign exchanges flagged for money-laundering concerns.
- Crypto company leaders will face strict eligibility checks, preventing individuals with serious criminal records from becoming major shareholders or executives.
At a national anti–money laundering event in Seoul, Financial Services Commission Chairman Lee Eok-won framed the upcoming overhaul as a matter of national security rather than routine financial regulation.
A Global Message Hidden in Domestic Reform
Lee said that criminals were learning to exploit gaps in South Korea’s system faster than regulators could close them, particularly through small-value crypto transfers routed across multiple platforms. What has historically required reporting only for transactions above 1 million won will now apply even below that threshold. Authorities say the intention is not to restrict crypto users, but to stop laundering that hides behind thousands of low-value transfers.
The new stance extends beyond South Korea’s borders. Direct crypto transfers to foreign exchanges flagged as high-risk will be blocked altogether, preventing local users from bypassing oversight by shifting assets overseas. Regulators argue that domestic controls lose meaning the moment funds are allowed to escape to jurisdictions with weak compliance.
A Pressure Test for Crypto Executives
The reform wave isn’t aimed only at transactions — leadership of crypto firms is being scrutinized as well. Anyone seeking to become a major shareholder or senior figure in a digital-asset company will undergo stricter evaluation. Past involvement in drug crimes, tax evasion, or other serious offenses will automatically disqualify applicants. Assessments will additionally weigh financial stability and broader social credibility.
The Financial Intelligence Unit has confirmed another layer of defense: the ability to freeze funds linked to major crimes before they leave the country. Rather than waiting for court procedures, investigators will be authorized to temporarily lock suspicious accounts during ongoing probes. The tool will apply specifically to crimes deemed severe threats to public order, such as narcotics and large-scale gambling networks.
Timetable and Regional Impact
The final blueprint is expected to be revealed in the first half of next year, followed by amendments to the Private Financial Information Law. South Korea will also expand international coordination through the FATF and joint operations with Southeast Asian financial intelligence units. Officials say the reforms are meant to set a regional benchmark for how crypto economies can coexist with aggressive crime prevention.
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Alex is an experienced financial journalist and cryptocurrency enthusiast. With over 8 years of experience covering the crypto, blockchain, and fintech industries, he is well-versed in the complex and ever-evolving world of digital assets. His insightful and thought-provoking articles provide readers with a clear picture of the latest developments and trends in the market. His approach allows him to break down complex ideas into accessible and in-depth content. Follow his publications to stay up to date with the most important trends and topics.