korean won-based stablecoin initiative

Key Points:* Two stablecoin models under consideration: trust-based and deposit-backed token model.

• Legal framework establishment is awaited before the launch.
• Focus on capital adequacy and consumer protection standards by South Korea’s Financial Services Commission. Although there has been an absence of direct statements from key figures, South Korea’s Financial Services Commission emphasizes capital adequacy and consumer protection as crucial ongoing discussions. Financial stability and a cautious approach to stablecoin integration remain priorities. As noted by a Senior Official, Korea Financial Services Commission, “Capital adequacy and consumer protection standards will be a key part of the next parliamentary debate.”

This move signifies a strategic entry into digital assets by South Korea’s banking sector, with the potential to challenge the global USD stablecoin market.

Legal Framework Delays as Banks Collaborate on Stablecoin Models

South Korea’s major commercial banks, including Kookmin Bank and Shinhan Bank, have formed a joint venture to develop a Korean won-based stablecoin. This collaboration involves partnerships with the Open Blockchain and Decentralized Identity Association. Banks are in the process of creating a common infrastructure necessary for the stablecoin’s launch.

Two stablecoin models are under consideration: a trust-based model and a deposit-backed token model. Before finalizing a launch, banks await the establishment of a legal framework to support these models, thus indicating a cautious yet deliberate approach.

Did you know? The initiative by South Korean banks mirrors previous attempts like Facebook’s Diem, facing regulatory hurdles. South Korea’s efforts could navigate these challenges more effectively due to its cohesive banking approach.

Market Data and Insights

Did you know? The initiative by South Korean banks mirrors previous attempts like Facebook’s Diem, facing regulatory hurdles. South Korea’s efforts could navigate these challenges more effectively due to its cohesive banking approach.

Ethereum (ETH) currently trades at $2,455.94 with a market cap of $296.48 billion, maintaining market dominance at 9.02%. Trading volume over the past 24 hours is $19.75 billion, showcasing a decrease of 22.80%. Ethereum has seen varied performance, rising by 2.08% over the last 24 hours but declining by 3.81% over the past 30 days. [Source: CoinMarketCap]

Ethereum(ETH), daily chart, screenshot on CoinMarketCap at 03:19 UTC on June 25, 2025. Source: CoinMarketCap

Analysts from Coincu suggest that South Korea’s venture could diversify the stablecoin market, spurring technological advancements and regulatory innovations. The collaborative approach may enhance financial integration and stability within digital asset ecosystems, potentially influencing global stablecoin dynamics.

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