
- Major Korean banks in advanced talks with Tether and Circle.
- Potential launch of a won-based stablecoin.
- Move aligns with South Korea’s digital finance reform goals.
South Korea’s major banks are in discussions with Tether and Circle to establish stablecoin partnerships, potentially launching a won-based stablecoin, aligning with President Lee’s digital finance agenda.

This collaboration could position South Korea as a leader in stablecoin markets, impacting fintech regulation and setting precedence for other nations watching stablecoin integration.
South Korea’s Major Banks Discuss Stablecoin Partnerships
South Korea’s largest banks, including Shinhan, Hana, and Woori, are discussing partnerships with Tether and Circle. These talks involve distributing stablecoins like USDT and USDC and possibly launching a won-based stablecoin. This aligns with Korea’s evolving digital finance landscape.
The partnerships may significantly impact the South Korean financial market. Discussions come in light of President Lee Jae Myung’s agenda to boost South Korea’s stablecoin presence. Official representatives from Circle, including Heath Tarbert, are confirmed to be meeting in person with bank executives. Heath Tarbert, President, Circle – “Our discussions with South Korea’s leading banks represent a significant step towards the establishment of a robust stablecoin ecosystem in the region.”
The potential partnerships are expected to affect South Korean crypto exchanges, including Upbit and Bithumb. The introduction of won-based stablecoins could enhance digital transaction dynamics within the country and integrate deeper into the crypto ecosystem.
The financial implications are broad, with South Korea’s government preparing new legislation to regulate these assets. This regulatory framework is critical, focusing on collateral and risk management, aiming to solidify the market’s stability.
The initiative could redefine South Korea’s financial infrastructure, influencing DeFi protocols. Emphasizing stablecoin adoption may encourage innovation despite existing foreign exchange risks highlighted by the Bank of Korea.
The outcome may shape global stablecoin markets, considering Korea’s role as a crypto innovation hub. Leveraging historical trends, the potential launch of a won-pegged stablecoin could transform regional and international digital finance paradigms.