Thinking of launching your own crypto exchange in South korea? Discover the top Korean cryptocurrency exchange software platforms dominating 2025.

Starting a crypto exchange in South Korea isn’t as simple as it seems. The market is crowded, regulations are strict, and user expectations are sky-high. Entrepreneurs often get stuck navigating compliance issues or choosing unreliable tech, which stalls their growth. But don’t worry—South Korea’s crypto ecosystem is also full of opportunity. In this article, we break down the top-performing crypto exchanges in South Korea, the platforms behind their success, and how you can tap into the Korean market with confidence.

Crypto Exchange South Korea – Market Insight 2025

According to industry projections, the cryptocurrencies market in South Korea is expected to generate a revenue of US$823.4 million by 2025. The number of users is estimated to reach 12.41 million, with a user penetration rate of 24.01%. South Korea’s strict regulations have also encouraged a shift towards more secure and regulated platforms, boosting the dominance of licensed exchanges in the country.

Best Crypto Exchanges in South Korea (2025)

South Korea continues to stand out as one of the most influential markets in the global cryptocurrency space. With a tech-savvy population and a strong regulatory framework, several crypto exchanges have gained widespread popularity for their performance, trust, and innovation.

In this blog, we explore the top performing cryptocurrency exchanges in South Korea as of 2025. Whether you’re a trader, investor, or an entrepreneur planning to launch your own exchange using a cryptocurrency exchange clone script or a white label crypto exchange platform, this overview offers valuable insights to guide your next move.

Let’s take a closer look at the leading platforms powering Korea’s thriving crypto ecosystem. Finally, here are the best crypto exchanges in South Korea:

1. Upbit

2. Bithumb

3. Coinone

4. Korbit

5. GOPAX

6. Binance (in Korea)

7. Huobi

1. Upbit

Launched in 2017 by Dunamu Inc., Upbit has swiftly ascended to become South Korea’s leading cryptocurrency exchange. As of 2025, it boasts approximately 10 million account holders, holding a dominant market share of 68.3% to 80%, with daily trading volumes surpassing $2.6 billion.

1. Cryptocurrencies: 190+
2. Trading Pairs: 304
3. Upbit is operated under tech giant Kakao and has invested over $50 million in blockchain startups since 2018, boosting the Korean blockchain ecosystem.
4. It ranks at the top among the best crypto trading platforms Korea 2025 due to its sleek interface and tight security.
   

2. Bithumb

Founded in 2014, Bithumb remains a major competitor with 2.36 million users, showing a 77.4% increase from the previous year. It holds a 15%–28.4% market share and offers a broad suite of features.

1. Cryptocurrencies: 280+
2. Trading Pairs: 282
3. Known for futures and margin trading, its round-the-clock support and user-friendly experience keep it relevant among seasoned traders and beginners alike.
   

3. Coinone

Established in 2014 by Myunghun Cha, Coinone currently serves around 3.2 million users. It’s widely praised for robust security and innovation, including “Cross,” South Korea’s first blockchain remittance app.

1. Cryptocurrencies: 293
2. Trading Pairs: 292
3. Fiat Supported: KRW
4. Prioritizing regulatory compliance and user trust, Coinone remains a go-to platform for safe trading.
   

4. Korbit

Founded in 2013, Korbit was South Korea’s first cryptocurrency exchange and continues to be a respected player in the space. Now under the umbrella of NXC (Nexon), it combines credibility with financial strength.

1. Cryptocurrencies: 189
2. Trading Pairs: 188
3. Fiat Supported: KRW
4. With 770,000 users, it maintains a solid niche focused on transparency and customer protection.
   

5. GOPAX

Launched in 2017, GOPAX is a fast-growing platform with a 150,000+ user base. It has grown 52.4% over the past year and focuses heavily on compliance and security.

1. Cryptocurrencies: 117
2. Trading Pairs: 120
3. Fiat Supported: KRW
4. Known for being acquired (in part) by Binance, GOPAX is gaining new ground as part of an international push into the Korean market.
   

6. Binance (in Korea)

Although not founded in South Korea, Binance has entered the market in a big way through its acquisition of GOPAX. It offers unmatched global liquidity and a wide array of trading options.

1. Global Users: 250+ million
2. Daily Volume: $17 billion
3. Cryptocurrencies: 402
4. Trading Pairs: 1,407
5. Binance is now a top choice for Korean users looking for international crypto exposure via a trusted and regulated local entry point.
   

7. HTX (formerly Huobi)

Founded in 2013, HTX (Huobi Global) is one of the world’s largest exchanges, also serving Korean traders with a wide range of offerings.

1. Cryptocurrencies: 725
2. Trading Pairs: 1,170
3. Fiat Supported: 4
4. HTX offers advanced tools like margin trading, derivatives, and high liquidity, making it a favorite for professional traders in Korea and abroad.
   

What’s New in Crypto Exchange South Korea Regulations (2025)

South Korea maintains one of the strictest crypto regulatory environments in the world, but it’s also among the most stable and transparent.

1. Crypto trading is legal but requires compliance with anti-money laundering (AML) and FSC regulations.
2. A 20% tax is imposed on annual crypto gains above $2,100.
3. As of July 2024, enhanced regulations require all Virtual Asset Service Providers (VASPs) to safeguard customer funds and ensure greater accountability.
   

Industry Overview

1. Total South Korean Crypto Users (2025): 16 million+
2. Users in 5 Major Exchanges: 16.29 million (combined)
3. Top Market Leader: Upbit market share 2025: 68.3% to 80%

These numbers reflect how deeply integrated crypto trading has become in Korean finance, from individual investors to institutional users.

Why Now Is the Best Time to Start a Crypto Exchange in South Korea

South Korea’s crypto market is still in its early phase — with only a portion of the population currently engaged in trading. This presents a massive opportunity for new players to enter the space and grow fast.

With a tech-savvy population and rising interest in digital assets, launching a user-friendly crypto exchange with a wide range of coins can quickly position your brand in the spotlight. The key? Security, simplicity, and smart marketing.

If you’re unsure about how to launch a crypto exchange in South Korea, this article covers everything — from legal regulations to key development steps. And if you’re ready to get started, connect with Opris, a leading crypto exchange development company, to bring your vision to life.

Conclusion

South Korea’s cryptocurrency exchange landscape in 2025 is dynamic, competitive, and globally influential. Platforms like Upbit, Bithumb, Coinone, and Binance in Korea are driving innovation while staying in line with evolving regulations. With over 16 million users and hundreds of trading pairs available, Korea remains one of the most active crypto markets globally.

Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned trader, South Korea’s exchanges offer a secure, compliant, and feature-rich ecosystem to support your digital asset journey.