German Authorities Shut Down 47 Crypto Exchange Services in Cybercrime
South Korea and Hong Kong Drive East Asia’s Expanding Crypto Market
(Originally posted on : Crypto News – iGaming.org )
According to Chainalysis’ most recent study, institutional interest in South Korea and Hong Kong is fueling the rapid expansion of the cryptocurrency sector in East Asia. With $130 billion in on-chain value, South Korea has emerged as a frontrunner, but Hong Kong stands out because of its advantageous regulatory framework. By drawing investors’ attention to digital assets, both areas are profiting from a growing cynicism toward traditional financial systems.
South Korea’s Dominance and Institutional Embrace
Chainalysis’ 2024 Geography of Cryptocurrency Report notes that East Asia ranks as the sixth-largest crypto economy, with over $400 billion in on-chain value from July 2023 to June 2024. Institutional players and professional investors are the primary forces behind this growth, especially in South Korea. The country’s cryptocurrency scene thrives on corporate blockchain adoption, enhancing public confidence in digital currencies. According to a South Korean exchange leader, “Mistrust in traditional financial systems has led investors to seek out cryptocurrencies as alternative assets.”
The report also points to the rising allure of altcoins and stablecoins, pushing more funds to global exchanges. This trend is amplified by phenomena like the “kimchi premium,” where South Korean crypto prices outpace those in global markets, creating lucrative opportunities for traders.
Hong Kong is rapidly establishing itself as a major cryptocurrency hub, thanks to its distinct regulatory landscape. The city’s appeal lies in its structured framework, which supports virtual asset trading platforms. In 2023, Hong Kong introduced new regulations, fostering institutional participation in the crypto market.
On April 30, Hong Kong’s Securities and Futures Commission (SFC) approved bitcoin and ether spot ETFs, opening a regulated pathway for investors. Kevin Cui, CEO of OSL, a leading digital asset platform in Hong Kong, observed, “These ETFs have not only provided a regulated pathway for investment in digital assets, but have also spurred interest in direct holdings in BTC and ETH.” The approval led to a surge in institutional BTC transfers on mainstream exchanges, signaling heightened interest from professional investors.
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As East Asia continues to evolve, the region’s regulatory clarity and institutional participation will likely drive further growth in cryptocurrency adoption.