Best Cryptocurrency Exchanges in South Korea 2025

South Korea isn’t just riding the crypto wave - It’s Leading It.  

By 2025, a staggering 30% of the population (15.59 million people) owns digital assets, cementing the nation’s status as a blockchain innovation hub. This isn’t just about tech-savvy millennials; it’s a cultural shift driven by cutting-edge infrastructure and a hunger for financial evolution.  

But let’s not sugarcoat it: the road hasn’t been smooth. After the $40B Terra-LUNA meltdown shook global markets, South Korea cracked down hard, rolling out bulletproof regulations like the Virtual Asset User Protection Act and now, they’re doubling down.  

Starting Q3 2025, institutions can legally sell crypto donations (think: museums auctioning NFT art), a move set to redefine the market. 

But here’s the kicker: not all exchanges are created equal. 

• Security First: In 2024 alone, Korean exchanges frustrated on 12,000+ hacking attempts.

• Fee Wars: Some platforms quietly charge 0.25% per trade; others undercut rivals with 0.02% rates.

• KRW Access: Want to cash out Korean Won? Only 6 exchanges offer instant KRW withdrawals. 

In this guide, we break down South Korea’s top 2025 crypto exchanges from giants like Upbit (98% cold storage) to rising stars like Korbit. Discover which platforms ace KYC checks, list trending tokens (SEI, TIA), and why one just teamed up with K-pop stars for NFTs. 

Ready to cut through the noise and find your perfect trading ally?  

Let’s get tactical.

Criteria for Evaluating Crypto Exchanges 

When choosing a cryptocurrency exchange in South Korea, focus on these key factors: 

• Security

• Fees

• Supported Cryptocurrencies

• Regulatory Compliance

• User Experience

Top Cryptocurrency Exchanges in South Korea 2025

South Korea is a significant player in the global cryptocurrency market, with several exchanges offering a range of services to both domestic and international users.  

Here's an overview of the 2025's top cryptocurrency exchanges in South Korea: 

1. Upbit

2. Bithumb

3. Coinone

4. Korbit

5. ProBit Korea

6. BingX

7. MEXC

8. OKX

1. Upbit 

Founded in 2017, Upbit has quickly risen to become the largest cryptocurrency exchange in South Korea. Backed by Kakao, the tech giant behind KakaoTalk, Upbit has leveraged its strong technological foundation and user-friendly interface to dominate the Korean crypto market.  

As of 2025, Upbit consistently ranks as the top exchange in terms of trading volume and user base in South Korea. 

Key Features 

• Supports KRW trading pairs for over 150 cryptocurrencies

• Strong compliance with Financial Services Commission (FSC) regulations

• Advanced security measures, including cold wallet storage and regular security audits

• User-friendly mobile app with real-time market data and alerts

• Competitive maker-taker fee structure, ranging from 0.05% to 0.25%

 

2. Bithumb 

Established in 2014, Bithumb is one of the oldest and most recognized cryptocurrency exchanges in South Korea. Despite facing some regulatory challenges, Bithumb has maintained its position as a top exchange, known for its high liquidity and diverse trading options.  

In 2025, Bithumb continues to be a preferred platform for many Korean traders, especially those interested in a wide range of altcoins. 

Key Features 

• Supports over 200 cryptocurrencies with KRW trading pairs

• Advanced trading features including margin trading and futures contracts

• Competitive fee structure with discounts for high-volume traders

• 24/7 customer support via multiple channels

• Regular promotional events and airdrops for users

 

3. Coinone 

Coinone, launched in 2014, has established itself as a reliable and innovative cryptocurrency exchange in South Korea. Known for its strong security features and user-friendly interface, Coinone has consistently ranked among the top exchanges in the country.  

As of 2025, Coinone continues to attract users with its focus on technology and customer service. 

Key Features 

• Supports over 250 cryptocurrencies with KRW trading pairs

• Advanced security measures, including multi-signature wallets and regular security audits

• Unique features like Coinone Blocks (for institutional investors) and Coinone Research (market analysis)

• Competitive fee structure with maker-taker model

• Mobile app with advanced trading features and real-time market data

 

4. Korbit 

Korbit, founded in 2013, holds the distinction of being South Korea’s first cryptocurrency exchange. While it may not boast the highest trading volumes, Korbit has maintained a loyal user base due to its reputation for reliability and its focus on educating newcomers to the crypto space.  

In 2025, Korbit continues to be a popular choice, especially for beginners entering the cryptocurrency market. 

Key Features 

• Supports a carefully curated list of cryptocurrencies with KRW trading pairs

• Strong emphasis on educational resources and market analysis

• Simple and intuitive user interface

• Competitive fee structure with discounts for high-volume traders

• Regular updates and new feature implementations based on user feedback

 

5. ProBit Korea 

ProBit Korea, a relative newcomer to the South Korean crypto exchange scene, has been gaining traction since its launch. While not as well-known as the “big four” (Upbit, Bithumb, Coinone, and Korbit), ProBit has been steadily growing its user base by offering unique features and a wide range of cryptocurrencies.  

As of 2025, ProBit is positioning itself as an alternative for traders looking for a fresh approach to cryptocurrency trading. 

Key Features 

• Supports over 300 cryptocurrencies with KRW trading pairs

• Unique tiered KYC system allowing for different levels of access

• PROB token utility for fee discounts and platform benefits

• Focus on listing new and promising cryptocurrency projects

• Regular trading competitions and promotional events

 

6. BingX 

BingX is a privacy-focused cryptocurrency exchange that was founded in 2018 as Bingbon and rebranded in 2021. It offers P2P KRW access, making it ideal for anonymous traders in South Korea. 

Features 

• Offers over 300 coins with up to 150x leverage.

• Charges 0.06% for futures trading.

• Provides a $5,000 welcome bonus.

• No KYC is required; users can trade with just an email.

• Includes social trading features.

 

7. MEXC 

MEXC is a global cryptocurrency exchange launched in 2018, known for its vast altcoin library and competitive fees. It is popular among speculative traders looking for early listings of new tokens. 

Features 

• Lists over 1,800 coins with up to 200x leverage.

• Offers rock-bottom spot fees starting at 0.10%.

• Provides a $5,000 sign-up bonus.

• Supports P2P KRW deposits, though they are uninsured.

• Hosts staking events and Initial Exchange Offerings (IEOs).

 

8. OKX 

OKX is a global cryptocurrency exchange launched in 2017, offering a balanced platform with advanced tools and competitive fees. It lacks KRW support but is popular among professional traders for its comprehensive features. 

Features 

• Supports over 317 coins with up to 125x leverage.

• Charges 0.08% for spot trading.

• Includes options trading, staking, and DeFi integrations.

• Offers a $10 welcome bonus.

• Regularly updates its platform with new features.

 

International Exchanges Accessible in South Korea 

South Korean users face strict barriers when accessing global cryptocurrency exchanges due to the country’s rigorous regulatory framework. While platforms like Binance, Coinbase, Kraken and Bybit dominate international markets, their operations in South Korea are heavily restricted.  

Local laws require all exchanges to register with the Financial Services Commission (FSC), adhere to anti-money laundering (AML) rules, and support Korean Won (KRW) transactions—conditions most foreign platforms fail to meet.

Regulatory Landscape in South Korea 

As of 2025, cryptocurrency is legal in South Korea, with regulations overseen by the Financial Services Commission (FSC) and the Bank of Korea. Key points:

• The Virtual Asset User Protection Act, passed in 2023, governs crypto activities.

• A 20% capital gains tax applies to crypto earnings over 2.5 million KRW annually.

• Exchanges must comply with strict AML and KYC requirements.

Regulatory Restrictions 

South Korea’s Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU) enforces crypto laws aggressively. In 2025, it blocked 17 unregistered foreign exchanges including KuCoin and MEXC for violating the Special Financial Transactions Act.  

This law mandates that platforms offering Korean-language services or KRW transactions must register locally, submit to audits, and implement strict KYC protocols. 

Trading on unregistered exchanges voids legal safeguards and complicates tax reporting. For safety, stick to FSC-licensed platforms like Upbit or Bithumb. 

Why It Matters: Break these rules, and exchanges face fines or shutdowns users risk frozen assets or jail. South Korea’s regulations prioritize security over privacy, creating a safe but tightly controlled market. 

Fee Structure Comparison of various Cryptocurrency Exchange in South korea

Also Read:

1. How Does Crypto Exchange Make Money?

2. Cost to Develop a Cryptocurrency Exchange

Conclusion: How to Succeed in South Korea’s Crypto Market 

South Korea’s crypto market is growing fast, but starting an exchange here isn’t easy.  

Big platforms like Upbit and Bithumb have already set the bar high with strong security, low fees, and trust. To compete, new exchanges need to learn from these leaders. 

Here’s what matters most:

• Safety First: Use offline storage for user funds, require ID checks (KYC), and run regular security tests.

• Fair Fees: Keep costs lower than Upbit’s 0.25% fee to attract traders.

• Follow Local Laws: Register with the government (FSC) and stick to rules like real-name bank accounts and fraud checks (AML). 

South Korean traders want platforms that are easy to use, support Korean Won (KRW), and offer popular coins like Bitcoin. They also value fast customer support and tools like tax reports, which help with the country’s 20% crypto tax. 

By focusing on these basics safety, fair pricing, and clear rules you can build a trusted exchange. Whether you’re serving new investors or experts, success comes from understanding what traders need and delivering it better than the rest.