South Korea Prepares to Welcome Crypto Firms into Startup Ecosystem

In a policy reversal, South Korea’s government is moving to recognize crypto trading and brokerage firms as legitimate “venture companies,” making them eligible for state support.

The proposed amendment would overturn a 2018 rule that excluded crypto businesses from startup benefits, instead categorizing them alongside nightlife and gambling venues. If approved, companies like Dunamu—which previously lost $18 million in tax breaks—could regain access to incentives.

This signals a potential turning point for South Korea’s crypto industry, aligning it with mainstream innovation-driven enterprises.