Retail investors are leaving South Korean crypto market for stocks

The number and trading volume of individual cryptocurrency investors in South Korea are on the decline, Maeil Business Newspaper reported, citing a report from Tiger Research. According to the report, South Korea was the world's second-largest market in the second half of 2025, with won-denominated trading volume reaching approximately $663 billion and 11.13 million people, or 21.53% of the population, registered as tradable users. However, the analysis found that average daily trading volume and won deposits are gradually decreasing as investors move to the stock market and overseas exchanges in search of better returns. The report suggested that for exchanges to survive, they must demonstrate the unique value of virtual assets that traditional finance cannot offer, such as on-chain experiences and a diverse range of tokens. It added that South Korea's well-established infrastructure means it remains the market in Asia best positioned for the rapid entry of potential investors.