South Korea Enacts Virtual Asset User Protection Act: 80% of Crypto Deposits in Cold Storage

• South Korea’s new regulations enhance user protection in the cryptocurrency industry.
• VASPs must keep 80% of user crypto deposits in cold storage.
• South Korea boasts one of the world’s most dynamic cryptocurrency industries, a status it aims to maintain with the recent introduction of new regulations.

Discover how South Korea’s new cryptocurrency regulations are shaping the industry’s future by enhancing user protections and enforcing stricter guidelines on VASPs.

Ins and Outs of South Korea’s New Crypto Regulation

On 19th July, South Korea’s financial security regulator put into effect comprehensive measures designed to protect users engaging with Virtual Asset Service Providers (VASPs). These regulations aim to bolster the security framework for individuals purchasing and holding crypto assets within the nation, ensuring robust protection mechanisms are in place.

What Does the New Regulation Entail?

The Financial Services Commission (FSC) of South Korea issued a detailed press release unveiling the components of the Virtual Asset User Protection Act. The Act focuses on critical areas including safeguarding users’ deposits and virtual assets, regulating unfair trading practices such as price manipulation, and empowering financial authorities to supervise, inspect, and penalize VASPs engaging in unethical activities.

Furthermore, the Act mandates that VASPs adopt extensive protective measures, including the necessity to procure insurance against cyber threats and segregate client crypto assets from their own operational funds. A key stipulation includes ensuring that these deposits are stored securely within banking institutions.

Expert Insights on the New Act

Kim Hyoung-joong, president of the Korea Fintech Society, highlighted the importance of this Act in reinforcing the distinction between the issuance and the distribution of virtual assets. He pointed out that while the Act robustly governs distribution, there remains an absence of regulations concerning the issuance of virtual assets. For South Korea’s crypto industry to expand comprehensively, concurrent regulation in both issuance and distribution, coupled with industry growth-promoting policies, is crucial.

The Journey Thus Far

Formally ratified on 18th July, the Virtual Asset User Protection Act establishes a stringent regulatory environment intended to protect cryptocurrency users across South Korea. This legislation includes stringent mandates for digital asset exchanges, such as the requirement to maintain at least 80% of user crypto deposits within cold storage, completely separate from the exchanges’ proprietary funds. Given South Korea’s prominent role in the global cryptocurrency market, these regulations mark a significant milestone.

Conclusion

In summary, South Korea’s introduction of the Virtual Asset User Protection Act signals a decisive move towards securing the cryptocurrency ecosystem. These measures are meticulously crafted to ensure user protection and foster a transparent and secure trading environment. As South Korea continues to refine these regulations over the upcoming year, users and investors can look forward to a more robust and secure crypto space.

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