"South Korea is reportedly preparing to open its financial markets to spot bitcoin exchange-traded funds (ETFs) this year, marking a shift in the country's long-standing approach to digital assets as regulators accelerate work on a comprehensive new crypto law. The plan was outlined in the government's newly released 2026 Economic Growth Strategy, with the Financial Services Commission (FSC) taking the lead on implementation."
"Until now, Korea's capital markets rules have not recognized cryptocurrencies like bitcoin or bitcoin ETFs as eligible underlying assets for ETFs, effectively blocking their launch. That stance is now changing as policymakers look to bring more crypto activity into regulated channels and reduce the flow of capital to offshore platforms. The bitcoin ETF push is moving in parallel with a broader overhaul of digital asset regulation."
South Korea plans to open financial markets to spot bitcoin exchange-traded funds (ETFs) this year, led by the Financial Services Commission under the 2026 Growth Strategy. If approved, spot bitcoin ETFs would be available to domestic investors for the first time, aligning Korea with the United States and Hong Kong. Capital markets rules previously barred cryptocurrencies as eligible ETF underlying assets, prompting policymakers to shift toward regulated channels and curb capital flows offshore. Regulators are fast-tracking Phase Two digital asset legislation emphasizing stablecoin licensing, minimum capital, strict 100% reserve backing, and guaranteed redemption. Authorities are drafting cross-border stablecoin transfer standards coordinated with the Ministry of Economy and Finance.
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