South Korea Sees Surge in Cryptocurrency Ownership

TLDR

• 16.29 million crypto holders expected to rise to 20 million.
• Investors over 50 increased by 56%, totaling 1.75 million.
• Bitcoin remains the most popular cryptocurrency among South Koreans.

South Korea is experiencing a notable rise in cryptocurrency holders, with more than 25% of individuals in their 20s to 50s now owning digital assets. According to the latest data, there were 16.29 million crypto holders as of early 2025, which could potentially rise to over 20 million by the end of the year. This trend underscores the growing integration of cryptocurrency within the country’s financial landscape.

The Korean population, which totals nearly 52 million, shows a significant proportion engaging with cryptocurrency, primarily driven by those aged 20 to 50. This age group is increasingly viewing cryptocurrency as a mainstream financial tool, further indicating the asset’s entrenched role in personal finance.

Age Demographics and Investment Growth

During the past year, the number of investors in their 50s grew by 56%, reaching 1.75 million, while individuals over 60 saw a 52.6% increase, totaling over 636,700. These figures suggest a broadening interest beyond younger generations, with older investors challenging traditional stereotypes about the crypto market.

Crypto “whales,” who hold assets over ₩1 billion (approximately $680,000), are now mostly individuals over 50, comprising 55.1% of this category. This shift illustrates substantial investment confidence among older age groups.

Key Players and Market Participation

The leading domestic exchanges, Upbit, Bithumb, Coinone, Korbit, and Gopax, command almost all cryptocurrency user activity within South Korea. These platforms have facilitated increased participation in the digital asset market, cementing their role as central hubs for trading and investment.

In conjunction with exchange activity, the Financial Services Commission has revealed new pilot programs expected to commence in late 2025. These initiatives are designed to enable corporate crypto activities, expanding beyond current retail and individual investment.

Regulatory Developments and Institutional Moves

In a pivotal move, South Korea’s Financial Services Commission is set to allow 3,500 corporate entities to begin engaging in cryptocurrency transactions, effectively reversing a 2017 ban. This change could open the door for increased institutional investments, further solidifying the country’s position in the crypto market.

Despite no new major government grants, South Korean banks are increasingly partnering with crypto platforms. The upcoming regulatory shifts are anticipated to integrate crypto further into the financial fabric, especially as institutions stand poised to enter the market.

Popular Assets and Investment Trends

Bitcoin (BTC) remains the most-held cryptocurrency in South Korea, followed by Ethereum (ETH), Solana (SOL), and XRP. Korean investors largely favor these established blue-chip assets, reflecting a cautious approach to digital asset investment.

While there are no significant on-chain total value locked (TVL) shifts specifically related to the rise in crypto holders, the banking sector’s increased involvement could foreseeably lead to institutional flow in the future.

The Daily Hodl Twitter Feed confirms that this demographic shift is unique compared to previous cycles dominated by younger investors. With seasoned participants entering the market, the dynamics of crypto trading and investment may continue to evolve.