South Korea’s presidential race ended with a decisive win for Lee Jae Myung, who secured 49.42% of the vote on June 4, 2025.
Known for his pro-crypto stance, Lee’s election is expected to reshape the country’s financial landscape and accelerate digital asset integration.
Notably, his opponent also supported crypto reform, highlighting how deeply digital assets have entered the political mainstream in a nation with over 18 million crypto users.
Among Lee’s key pledges is allowing South Korea’s $884 billion National Pension Fund to invest in Bitcoin and other digital assets—an unprecedented step to legitimize crypto at the institutional level.
He also plans to strengthen protections for young investors by building a more transparent and secure crypto environment, aiming to improve both access and financial education.
Another initiative includes creating a state-backed institution for Spot Bitcoin ETFs, paired with a national monitoring system to increase regulatory oversight.
Lee is also pushing for a won-backed stablecoin to reduce dependence on foreign assets like USDT and USDC. His goal: limit capital flight and reinforce monetary sovereignty.
Building on South Korea’s initial crypto framework launched in mid-2024, Lee will lead the rollout of Phase 2—focused on investor trust and refined regulation.
To fast-track progress, a Digital Asset Committee reporting directly to the president will coordinate legislation and drive innovation in fintech.
“I will fully dedicate myself to this responsibility,” Lee said after the results, promising to make digital innovation a core pillar of his administration.
With his election, South Korea enters a new chapter where clear regulation, institutional crypto investment, and youth-focused reforms could redefine its financial future.
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