The timeline of events in South Korea continues to generate uncertainty regarding the regulatory framework for digital assets backed by local currency. According to reports from TechFlow, the Financial Services Commission (FSC) did not submit the expected legislative proposal by December 10, leaving the Democratic Party’s plans to introduce it in January 2026 in limbo. This schedule was directly linked to President Lee Jae-myung’s electoral commitments.
Internal tensions delay the legislative process
FSC officials attributed the missed deadline to difficulties in inter-institutional coordination. However, behind this explanation lies a deeper friction over who should exercise control over the issuance of these digital financial instruments. The Bank of Korea advocates for its position to directly oversee the creation of stablecoins, arguing that this is essential to mitigate systemic risks such as funding illicit activities and to preserve the effectiveness of monetary policy.
Divergent approaches to regulation
The FSC’s stance contrasts with that of the central bank. Commission officials maintain that their regulatory framework is sufficient, citing models implemented in the European Union and Japan as precedents. This disagreement over competent authorities and control mechanisms has prolonged negotiations, leaving entrepreneurs and trading platforms awaiting regulatory clarity.
The regulatory debate in South Korea reflects a global pattern: how to balance financial innovation with the protection of the monetary system and national security.
View Original
This page may contain third-party content, which is provided for information purposes only (not representations/warranties) and should not be considered as an endorsement of its views by Gate, nor as financial or professional advice. See Disclaimer for details.
Regulatory approval delays: What to expect from South Korea regarding won-backed stablecoins
The timeline of events in South Korea continues to generate uncertainty regarding the regulatory framework for digital assets backed by local currency. According to reports from TechFlow, the Financial Services Commission (FSC) did not submit the expected legislative proposal by December 10, leaving the Democratic Party’s plans to introduce it in January 2026 in limbo. This schedule was directly linked to President Lee Jae-myung’s electoral commitments.
Internal tensions delay the legislative process
FSC officials attributed the missed deadline to difficulties in inter-institutional coordination. However, behind this explanation lies a deeper friction over who should exercise control over the issuance of these digital financial instruments. The Bank of Korea advocates for its position to directly oversee the creation of stablecoins, arguing that this is essential to mitigate systemic risks such as funding illicit activities and to preserve the effectiveness of monetary policy.
Divergent approaches to regulation
The FSC’s stance contrasts with that of the central bank. Commission officials maintain that their regulatory framework is sufficient, citing models implemented in the European Union and Japan as precedents. This disagreement over competent authorities and control mechanisms has prolonged negotiations, leaving entrepreneurs and trading platforms awaiting regulatory clarity.
The regulatory debate in South Korea reflects a global pattern: how to balance financial innovation with the protection of the monetary system and national security.