South Korea lifts crypto restrictions, offering tax breaks and financial support to boost industry growth.
Contents
3 min read
South Korea to Grant Crypto Firms Venture Company Status
In a significant regulatory shift, South Korea is set to grant cryptocurrency firms the status of venture companies, a move that could invigorate the nation’s blockchain and digital asset sectors. This development, announced by the Ministry of SMEs and Startups, is expected to take effect next week, marking a pivotal change in the country’s approach to digital finance.
Regulatory Changes to Boost Crypto Industry
Related: Unfolding the Crypto Market Scenario in South Korea: A Comprehensive Analysis
The South Korean government has passed a revision to the Enforcement Decree of the Venture Business Act, lifting restrictions that previously barred crypto businesses from qualifying as venture companies. This change will allow these firms to access various benefits, including tax breaks and financial support, which have been unavailable since October 2018 due to concerns over the speculative nature of cryptocurrencies at the time.
According to Han Seong-sook, the Minister of SMEs and Startups, this regulatory improvement aims to align South Korea with the global trend of digital asset industry growth. The government believes that by removing these barriers, it can stimulate innovation and expansion within the sector, particularly in areas such as blockchain technology, smart contracts, and cybersecurity.
Anticipated Impact on the Crypto Sector
The revised policy is expected to accelerate growth in virtual asset trading and brokerage services. Legal experts, such as Ted Koo from the law firm LIN, have highlighted that the new status will provide crypto firms with access to research and development grants, credit guarantees, and other forms of financial support. This move is also likely to encourage existing venture companies to venture into the crypto space without risking their current classifications.
South Korea’s crypto industry has already seen a boost following the election of President Lee Jae-myung, who has been proactive in promoting crypto-friendly policies. His administration has introduced various laws supporting digital currencies, including a bill to legalize stablecoins.
Future Prospects and Market Growth
Related: South Korea to Ease Crypto Business Restrictions
The decision to lift the ban reflects the evolving global status of the crypto industry and the maturity of user protection systems. The Ministry of SMEs and Startups anticipates that these changes will foster a transparent and responsible ecosystem, facilitating the smooth inflow of venture capital and the growth of new industries.
Market projections suggest that South Korea’s cryptocurrency sector could reach a revenue of $1.1 billion by 2025, with further growth expected in the following years. The number of crypto exchange users in the country has already surpassed 16 million, representing a significant portion of the population.
For more details on the regulatory changes and their potential impact, visit the KoreaTechDesk and Cointelegraph.