TLDR
- South Korea reported 90 trillion won in crypto outflows in the second half of 2025.
- Outflows rose 14% from 78.9 trillion won in the first half of 2025.
- Crypto exchange accounts reached 11.1 million by the end of 2025.
- Deposits on local exchanges increased 31% to 8.1 trillion won in H2 2025.
- Operating profit at 18 exchanges fell 38% to 380.7 billion won in the second half.
South Korea saw $60 billion in crypto outflows to overseas platforms and private wallets in H2 2025. The Financial Services Commission said 90 trillion won moved out of local exchanges from July to December.
It also showed more users and larger deposits on domestic platforms, even as profits fell. The report said the pattern may reflect arbitrage activity during a volatile market.
Crypto outflows rise in South Korea
Outflows rose 14% from 78.9 trillion won in the first half of 2025. That made the second half the larger period for outbound crypto transfers.
The FSC said assets moved from domestic exchanges to overseas platforms and private wallets. Those routes can be used when traders seek better prices across markets.
The report said, “It is presumed that virtual assets are being transferred abroad for arbitrage and other similar activities.” The regulator did not link the flows to one token or one exchange.
User accounts and deposits move higher
Local exchange participation still increased by the end of 2025. The number of accounts reached 11.1 million, up 3% from June.
Deposits grew faster than account totals and rose 31% to 8.1 trillion won. That meant more funds remained on platforms despite weaker trading conditions.
The rise in deposits was sharper than the rise in accounts. At the same time, exchange profitability still fell during the same period.
The data showed a split between user growth and exchange earnings. Accounts and deposits climbed, while market turnover and profits moved lower.
Exchange profits and market value fall
The country’s 18 operating exchanges posted 380.7 billion won in operating profit. That was 38% lower than 617.8 billion won in the first half.
South Korea’s total crypto market capitalization stood at 87.2 trillion won at the end of 2025. That figure was 8% lower than the first half.
Average daily transaction volume fell 15% to 5.4 trillion won. The FSC said weaker prices late in the year reduced trading and exchange income.
Bitcoin stayed below its October 2025 peak of about $126,080. The broader market also faced pressure from Middle East tensions and a hawkish Federal Reserve outlook.
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