What to Know:
- Kiwoom Securities is discussing a stake purchase in Bithumb crypto exchange.
- South Korean institutions are increasing investments in digital asset firms.
- Bithumb continues preparations for a planned IPO expected in 2028.
South Korea’s cryptocurrency industry continues to attract major financial players. The latest example is Bithumb crypto exchange, which is reportedly in talks with Kiwoom Securities regarding a strategic investment.
According to local reports, Kiwoom Securities is negotiating the purchase of newly issued shares through a third-party allocation. Under the proposed arrangement, Bithumb would issue fresh shares, and Kiwoom would acquire them. The exact investment amount and ownership percentage remain under discussion.
If completed, the deal would mark another significant step in the growing relationship between traditional finance and digital assets in South Korea.
Also Read: Upbit and Bithumb Expand Listings with SPX6900 and Spacecoin
Bithumb Crypto Exchange Benefits From Growing Institutional Interest
The reported talks come at a time when large financial institutions are increasing their exposure to cryptocurrency companies.
Recently, Hana Bank announced plans to acquire a $670 million stake in Dunamu, the parent company of Upbit, South Korea’s largest crypto exchange. Shortly afterward, three Samsung subsidiaries reportedly agreed to purchase roughly $407.7 million worth of Dunamu shares, securing a combined 4% ownership stake.
International firms are also moving into the market. OKX Ventures revealed plans to acquire a 19.6% stake in Coinone, while Binance completed its long-awaited acquisition of Gopax after overcoming regulatory hurdles.
These developments highlight growing confidence in South Korea’s digital asset sector despite ongoing regulatory uncertainty.
Bithumb Crypto Exchange Prepares for IPO Amid Regulatory Changes
At the same time, South Korean lawmakers are working on the Digital Asset Basic Act, a broad regulatory framework for the cryptocurrency industry. Legislators are expected to push discussions forward during the second half of the year after months of delays.
One proposal under consideration would limit ownership in crypto exchanges. Current discussions suggest a baseline cap of 20% for a single shareholder, although exceptions of up to 34% may be permitted under special circumstances.
Meanwhile, Bithumb crypto exchange continues to prepare for its public market debut. The company recently signed an IPO advisory agreement with Samjong KPMG that extends through 2027. Chief Financial Officer Jeong Sang-gyun previously indicated that the exchange is targeting an initial public offering in 2028.
With institutional investors showing increasing interest and regulatory clarity gradually improving, Bithumb appears positioned for an important new phase of growth.
Also Read: Cryptocurrency Influencers to Disclose Assets: S.Korea Exclusively Mandates 2026 Regulations
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