South Korea to Launch Won-Based Stablecoins, Change Crypto Landscape

South Korea, under the leadership of President Lee Jae-myung, plans to launch won-backed stablecoins as part of a sweeping pro-crypto agenda announced in June 2025 to bolster the national economy.

This move is significant for financial sovereignty, potentially affecting global stablecoin markets and bolstering crypto legitimacy domestically, spurred by rising equities and evolving regulatory frameworks.

South Korea Plans National Stablecoin Initiative

The South Korean government has unveiled plans to introduce won-backed stablecoins. President Lee Jae-myung leads this push, advocating for the development of domestic digital currencies to enhance economic stability. “We need to establish a won-backed stablecoin market to prevent national wealth from leaking overseas,” said President Lee Jae-myung.

The initiative involves the Financial Services Commission lifting bans on Korean won-based stablecoins. Key players like Kakao Pay filed for patents, showing readiness to enter the stablecoin market.

Kakao Pay Shares Surge 141% Post-Announcement

The announcement has led to a surge in related equities, with Kakao Pay shares jumping 141% amid optimism. The market anticipates new investment opportunities and potential economic impact from this initiative.

These won-backed stablecoins are projected to stabilize national wealth and prevent it from draining overseas, providing regulated digital asset adoption. Analysts expect broader regulatory acceptance to influence the global crypto landscape.

South Korea Reverses Previous Crypto Ban

This initiative mirrors previous moves by the EU and Japan in stablecoin regulation. South Korea’s earlier bans were based on financial risks, now overturned by the current administration’s pro-crypto stance.

Experts from Kanalcoin suggest that the emerging regulatory environment could enhance both investor confidence and South Korea’s role in the digital currency market. Robust funding requirements signal a focus on sustainable growth.