South Korea Stablecoin Fight Delays Rules Until 2026: US To Dominate?

Core Insights - The US has validated the cryptocurrency industry, allowing major players to invest significantly, particularly through Spot Bitcoin and Ethereum ETFs, which are seen as transformative [1] - South Korea, which previously imposed strict regulations on cryptocurrencies, is now focusing on stablecoin legislation as a critical next step [2] Group 1: South Korea's Regulatory Landscape - South Korea had previously banned crypto ICOs and mandated licensing for operators, which has benefited current holders [2] - The country has paused its development of new crypto laws due to disagreements among regulators on who should issue won-backed stablecoins [3] - Stablecoin trading in South Korea is growing, with local users transacting tens of billions of dollars annually [3] Group 2: Stablecoin Market Dynamics - Korean won-based stablecoin purchases reached approximately $64 billion in the year ending June 2025, attracting the attention of central banks [4] - The Bank of Korea (BoK) insists that only bank-led groups should issue stablecoins, requiring banks to own at least 51% to ensure compliance with financial laws [5] - The Financial Services Commission (FSC) advocates for a more flexible model allowing fintech firms to issue stablecoins under strict reserve and redemption rules, which could enhance competition and consumer choice [6] Group 3: Future Outlook - A resolution regarding stablecoin legislation in South Korea is anticipated in Q1 2026, indicating that the government is still committed to the project despite current delays [6] - The ongoing regulatory challenges may inadvertently strengthen the dominance of USD stablecoins in the market [7]