South Korea’s Individual Savings Account holders surpassed 10 million at the end of August, marking a milestone 10 years and five months after the accounts were introduced in March 2016. The Korea Financial Investment Association said 10.05 million people held ISAs, with combined balances of 76.5 trillion won ($55.1 billion). That represents 22.8% of the approximately 44.07 million adults aged 19 and over. Growth has been led by brokerage-type ISAs, which allow holders to select investments directly. They accounted for 8.975 million holders, or 89.3% of the total, with ETFs (exchange-traded funds) representing 50.8% of managed assets and stocks 36.1%. ISAs combine domestic listed stocks, ETFs, funds and savings deposits in a tax-advantaged account. Gains and losses are offset after a set period, with only net profits taxed. Net profits of up to 2 million won are exempt in standard accounts and up to 4 million won for low- and middle-income holders; excess profits are taxed separately at 9.9%. Deferred taxation until closure can also support compounding. Trust-type and discretionary accounts have declined, while brokerage firms now account for 89.6% of holders. Younger investors have gained share, and Han Jae-young of the Korea Financial Investment Association said the milestone shows ISAs have become mainstream savings and investment accounts. He also pointed to a productive finance ISA to be introduced soon and expected it to support household wealth building and domestic capital markets.