Binance May Return to South Korea After Reported Gopax Majority Stake Acquisition

• Binance acquisition of Gopax: Reported 67% majority stake, pending FIU approval and no formal confirmation from Binance.

• Acquisition plans were reportedly delayed from 2023 due to regulatory reviews; local reporting cites resumed FIU scrutiny of Gopax executive changes.

• Reported data point: 67% stake; regional investment activity includes a 40% stake in Binance Japan by PayPay and other corporate moves in the region.

Binance acquisition of Gopax reported: Binance reportedly bought a 67% stake in Gopax; FIU review continues. Read detailed analysis and implications — COINOTAG.

Binance Co-Founder CZ Zhao targets South Korea again, eyeing its top crypto market, strong talent, and vibrant startup community.

Published: October 16, 2025. Updated: October 16, 2025. Author: COINOTAG.

According to multiple local media reports on October 16, Binance has reportedly completed the acquisition of Gopax, a leading South Korean cryptocurrency exchange. The reports indicate a 67% majority stake purchase, although Binance has not issued a formal confirmation and regulatory review remains ongoing.

What is Binance’s acquisition of Gopax?

Binance acquisition of Gopax refers to reported local-media claims that Binance acquired a 67% majority stake in Gopax, positioning the exchange for a significant re-entry into the South Korean market. The transaction is reported to be subject to review by the Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU) and awaits official confirmation from Binance.

How are South Korean regulators assessing the deal?

South Korean authorities maintain strict oversight of foreign crypto platforms with a focus on anti-money laundering and investor protection. The Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU) reportedly resumed its review of Gopax’s executive changes after prior delays. Regulatory assessment emphasizes compliance with AML controls, customer protection measures, and governance transparency. These reviews can extend timelines for ownership transfers and operational changes.

Binance’s expansion plans

Local reporting ties the Gopax acquisition to Binance’s broader regional strategy. Binance Co‑Founder Changpeng “CZ” Zhao has publicly highlighted South Korea’s high crypto adoption, deep talent pool and dynamic startup ecosystem—factors that make the market attractive for major exchanges. Binance has not issued a company statement confirming the transaction or its terms.

The reported deal follows earlier plans that were postponed in 2023 amid regulatory discussions. Sources cited in coverage say the FIU resumed its review, which is a necessary step before any long-term operational control can be exercised by a foreign majority holder. Historically, South Korean regulators have required robust AML safeguards and clear corporate governance plans before approving foreign-led changes at domestic exchanges.

Regional investment activity underscores the strategic interest in East Asian crypto markets. Examples noted in reporting include a 40% stake investment in Binance Japan by PayPay and other corporate investment moves in the region, illustrating the competitive environment for leading exchanges and financial platforms.

Expert commentary: Industry observers note that regulatory clarity in South Korea is a critical determinant for any foreign exchange’s growth plans. While some U.S. legal developments—reported settlements and case updates—have reduced certain overhangs in global markets, South Korean approval processes remain independent and rigorous.

Also Read: Naver Financial Weighs Stake in South Korea’s Top Exchange Upbit

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Frequently Asked Questions

Will the Binance acquisition of Gopax affect South Korean traders?

Reportedly, operational changes could follow approval, but immediate service disruptions are not indicated in local reporting. Any material change would require FIU clearance and adherence to South Korea’s AML and investor-protection standards. Traders should monitor official statements from Gopax and FIU notices for verified guidance.

Is the Binance Gopax acquisition confirmed?

Local media reported the acquisition and a 67% stake purchase, but Binance has not confirmed the transaction publicly. The deal is reported to be under review by the Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU), and regulatory approval is required before the transaction is finalized.

Key Takeaways

• Reported deal: Local media say Binance acquired a 67% majority stake in Gopax, marking a potential market re-entry.
• Regulatory review: The FIU’s resumed review of executive changes is a critical step; approval is required for finalization.
• Next steps: Await formal confirmation from Binance and public regulatory notices from the FIU; market participants should follow official communications.

Conclusion

The Binance acquisition of Gopax, as reported on October 16, 2025, would be a major development for South Korea’s crypto landscape if confirmed and approved by the FIU. COINOTAG will continue monitoring official statements from Binance, Gopax and the Financial Intelligence Unit, and will report verified updates as they become available. Stay tuned for follow-up coverage and regulatory updates.

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