Crypto.com will soon introduce retail trading services in South Korea through its recently acquired, locally licensed exchange, OK-BIT. While Crypto.com aims to provide a wide range of cryptocurrency services through its app launch on April 29th, regulatory limitations in South Korea may restrict the exchange's offerings, potentially excluding institutional traders and limiting crypto-to-crypto trading options.
Crypto.com Establishes Foothold in South Korean Digital Asset Market
Singapore-based digital asset exchange Crypto.com has announced its imminent entry into the South Korean market, marking a significant expansion in the company's global footprint. The move comes after Crypto.com's acquisition of OK-BIT, a locally licensed crypto exchange, in 2022.
On April 29th, Crypto.com will launch its retail trading services in South Korea, offering a comprehensive suite of features to its customers. The exchange plans to replace OK-BIT with its proprietary trading app, providing access to over 150 cryptocurrencies, exclusive NFT projects through Crypto.com NFT, educational resources via Crypto.com University, and a loyalty program with attractive rewards.
Eric Anziani, President and Chief Operating Officer of Crypto.com, expressed his enthusiasm for the expansion, stating, "We are incredibly excited to be launching the Crypto.com App for retail users in South Korea – a market of tremendous importance to the growth of our business, and one where consumers are very interested in crypto."
Despite this milestone, Crypto.com faces potential challenges in offering a full trading experience in South Korea due to the country's stringent digital asset regulations. According to local media reports, the exchange plans to operate under OK-BIT's VASP (Virtual Asset Service Provider) rights until September 2023. This arrangement may limit Crypto.com's app to crypto-to-crypto trading due to OK-BIT's lack of a bank partnership for won market operations.
Furthermore, institutional traders based in South Korea are prohibited from investing directly in crypto, which could hinder Crypto.com's ability to serve this segment of the market.
Despite these regulatory hurdles, Crypto.com remains committed to fostering the growth of the digital asset industry in South Korea. Anziani emphasized, "We are dedicated to working closely with South Korean regulators to help grow the domestic digital assets industry responsibly."
The exchange's entry into South Korea is seen as a positive sign for the country's digital asset ecosystem, bringing a reputable player with a global presence and a commitment to innovation. As South Korea continues to explore the potential of digital assets, Crypto.com's presence is expected to contribute to the industry's development and adoption by retail investors and businesses alike.
