South Korea Plans Bitcoin Spot ETF Approval Under 2026 Economic Growth Strategy

TLDR

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South Korea included Bitcoin spot ETFs in its official 2026 Economic Growth Strategy roadmap.
The Financial Services Commission will review ETF rules under the Capital Markets Act.
Regulators cited active Bitcoin ETF markets in the US and Hong Kong as references.
Lawmakers are also drafting stablecoin rules as part of second-phase digital asset laws.

South Korea is preparing to reshape its digital asset market as regulators move toward approving Bitcoin spot exchange-traded funds. The plan forms part of the country’s newly released 2026 Economic Growth Strategy. Authorities aim to align local markets with global financial trends while expanding regulated access to digital assets. The policy signals a shift in how Korea treats cryptocurrencies within its broader financial system and capital markets framework.

Bitcoin Spot ETFs Included in 2026 Growth Strategy

The South Korean government confirmed that Bitcoin spot ETFs are under review within its 2026 Economic Growth Strategy. The roadmap was released on January 9. It outlines plans to include digital assets as part of regulated financial products. This marks a change from past policy, which excluded cryptocurrencies from ETF eligibility.

The Financial Services Commission will lead the review process. It plans to examine existing rules under the Capital Markets Act. The goal is to decide how spot digital asset ETFs can operate within current law. The Korea Exchange has also stated that its trading systems can support these products once approved.

South Korea said in its 2026 Economic Growth Strategy that it plans to allow spot digital asset ETFs, including spot Bitcoin ETFs, this year, while the Financial Services Commission (FSC) accelerates phase-two digital asset legislation. The government cited active spot Bitcoin…
— Wu Blockchain (@WuBlockchain) January 9, 2026

Officials are closely monitoring overseas markets. Bitcoin spot ETFs already trade in the United States and Hong Kong. Authorities see these markets as reference points for structure and risk controls. The government aims to offer regulated Bitcoin exposure through exchanges rather than crypto-only platforms.

Regulatory Process and Timeline for Approval

The approval process will involve phased regulatory changes. Regulators will assess custody standards, pricing mechanisms, and investor protection measures. These steps are meant to ensure that spot ETFs meet the same standards as traditional funds.

According to the policy roadmap, regulators will begin formal preparations this year. Legislative reviews will continue through 2026. If the process stays on schedule, spot Bitcoin ETFs could launch before the end of 2026. The government has not yet shared a specific launch date.

A senior official quoted by local media said the strategy reflects “global market alignment.” The official added that regulators aim to balance innovation with financial stability. Authorities stressed that risk management remains a priority during implementation.

Stablecoin Rules Form Second Phase of Digital Asset Laws

Alongside ETF plans, South Korea is drafting new stablecoin regulations. These rules will form part of the second wave of digital asset legislation. The framework will introduce licensing requirements for stablecoin issuers operating in the country.

The proposal includes a full reserve requirement. Stablecoin issuers must hold assets equal to 100% of circulating supply. These reserves may include bank deposits or government-backed securities. The framework also guarantees redemption rights for holders.

Cross-border transfer rules will also apply. Regulators aim to improve oversight of international flows. Lawmakers see stablecoins as payment tools rather than speculative assets. The rules aim to support usage while limiting systemic risk.

Government Plans for Digital Treasury and Payments

The growth strategy also includes plans to digitize part of South Korea’s national treasury. By 2030, about 25% of treasury funds may move to digital formats. These funds will operate as deposit tokens used for settlements and payments.

To support this shift, authorities plan to revise several laws. These include the Bank of Korea Act and the National Treasury Management Act. Digital wallets may be introduced for government payments and public sector transactions.

Officials said the system will improve settlement efficiency. It will also support transparency in public fund management. The initiative aligns with broader efforts to modernize financial infrastructure.

South Korea has one of the world’s highest crypto participation rates. Policymakers aim to keep domestic capital within regulated markets. By advancing ETF approval and digital asset laws, the government seeks to strengthen its position in digital finance across Asia.