The Financial Investment Association of South Korea (KOFIA) has announced plans to seek the approval of cryptocurrency exchange-traded funds (ETFs) on the domestic stock market in 2025. KOFIA chief Seo Yoo-seok indicated a growing interest in cryptocurrencies among investors over 50, emphasizing that regulated financial products based on Bitcoin and Ethereum could offer a safer option compared to direct investments. This initiative follows a global shift in the crypto landscape, particularly after recent political developments in the U.S. KOFIA's push comes amid ongoing reviews by South Korea's Financial Services Commission (FSC) to possibly ease restrictions on corporate crypto accounts and potentially allow crypto-backed ETFs. Currently, stringent Anti-Money Laundering regulations restrict retail activity in the crypto space, which has limited institutional participation. The country's exchanges have struggled to meet mandatory partnerships with local banks, thereby positioning retail investors as the primary market participants.

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