According to the 2025 South Korea Wealth Report, a third of individuals with financial assets exceed 1 billion won, investing or holding cryptocurrencies.
The findings follow an extensive survey that includes 3,010 respondents. They reveal the evolving investment habits of South Korea’s wealthy people amid ongoing economic challenges.
The rise in popularity of cryptography
The survey found that 34% of wealthy Koreans buy or own crypto assets. On average, these individuals invest around 42 million won (approximately $29,232) in digital currency.
In particular, more than 70% of virtual assets Investors They have committed at least 10 million won to these assets, with 34% holding more than four types of virtual assets. This shows an increase in diversification strategies among the country’s wealthy investors.
While profitability remains the main motivation for these investments, the factors driving interest in virtual assets are changing. Less than half (49%) of respondents showed that they promoted a high return potential. However, this is down from the past 59%.
In contrast, accessibility of these investments (37%) and the sector’s expected growth outlook (34%) has gained more traction. This suggests that the wealthy people now see Crypto as an evolving and promising market.
Virtual asset investment continues
Despite the uncertain economic situation, South Korea The wealthiest individuals seem to be committed to maintaining their investment in virtual assets. The survey revealed that 60% of people who invested in digital currency are expected to continue in 2025.
In comparison, only 10% of respondents agreed to withdraw from the virtual asset market.
Young wealthy man leads the accusation
A closer look at the differences between generations reveals that young, wealthy people, usually in their 40s, are expected to be more involved in crypto assets and foreign stocks.
For example, 78% of young, wealthy stocks compared to 66.4% of older counterparts. Furthermore, the majority of stock investments are directed towards foreign markets, with around 30% of the portfolio being allocated to foreign stocks, with 20% being much higher than what is seen in the older demographics.
Moreover, young and wealthy people are far more likely to invest in virtual assets. Approximately 29% of individuals in this group own digital currency compared to just 10% of the elderly and wealthy population.
Green space for institutions investing in crypto
In January, South Korea announced plans to gradually introduce institutional investors into the crypto market as part of a more favorable approach to digital assets.
According to updatethe Financial Services Commission (FSC), South Korea’s leading regulatory body, will begin authorizing institutional investments in cryptocurrency.
Previously, access to crypto investments in Korea was primarily limited to retail investors. The state has not implemented a formal ban on institutional participation, but has historically discouraged such involvement in the digital assets sector.
