South Korea outlines 20% controlling-shareholder cap for crypto exchanges in Digital Asset Basic Act

South Korea’s government outline for the Digital Asset Basic Act would generally cap controlling shareholders’ stakes in cryptocurrency exchanges at 20%, while allowing holdings of as much as 34% for operators that meet innovation-related and other conditions. The Financial Services Commission still aims to submit the draft as early as September to Political Affairs Committee chair Yoo Dong-su for introduction as lawmaker legislation, framing the measure as the country’s first framework law for virtual assets, including business categories, a shift from registration to licensing for exchanges, and stablecoin rules. On Aug. 26 the FSC reassigned Kim Sung-jin, the first head of its virtual asset division and the official who had led drafting of the government bill, to the asset management division, naming Seo Na-yoon as successor to oversee the final drafting stage and follow-up measures; the industry has raised concerns the change could delay submission. Shares above the ceiling would face voting-rights restrictions and potential disposal orders. Impact would differ by firm: Dunamu chairman Song Chi-hyung’s stake in the 25% range could be retained if the 34% exception is granted, while Bithumb’s largest shareholder above 70% would face unavoidable adjustment. FSC Chairman Lee Eok-weon told lawmakers on Aug. 24 that authorities were actively discussing submission timing, and passage remains uncertain amid property-rights concerns and committee turnover.

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