The Rise of Next-Generation Payment Infrastructure and Robust Regulations

As the blueprint for next-generation payment infrastructure driven by AI agents and stablecoins unfolds, the institutionalization of the domestic digital asset market is accelerating. Financial authorities are resuming the enactment of the Digital Asset Basic Act and significantly tightening Virtual Asset Service Provider (VASP) reporting requirements to ensure market integrity. Furthermore, the launch of a new fractional investment securities market marks the imminent arrival of the tokenized securities era.

Resumption of Digital Asset Basic Act and Stricter VASP Reporting Rules

The Financial Services Commission (FSC) held a closed-door meeting late last month with the National Policy Committee Chairman and ruling party officials to discuss the enactment of the Digital Asset Basic Act, effectively resuming the legislative process. Concurrently, the Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU) and Financial Supervisory Service (FSS) completely revised the VASP reporting manual under the amended Special Financial Information Act. Screening now extends to major shareholders, with significantly stricter requirements for financial soundness and anti-money laundering (AML) internal controls.

Launch of Fractional Investment Securities Market in November

The Korea Exchange (KRX) will open a new securities market on November 16, allowing fractional investments in underlying assets such as art and real estate. With the legal foundation for the issuance and distribution of distributed ledger-based token securities set for next February, the institutionalization of the fractional investment market is expected to accelerate rapidly.

▶ Sources: Yonhap News | Yonhap Infomax | Financial Services Commission

The Era of AI Agent Payments and the Role of South Korea’s Port and Logistics Hub

In a regional op-ed, BDACS CEO Harry Ryoo highlighted the emerging financial landscape where AI acts as the primary payment agent and stablecoins serve as the default medium of exchange. Noting that global tech giants are establishing worldwide standards for AI payment infrastructure, he emphasized that South Korea’s central city for shipping, ports, and logistics, functioning as a natural hub for cross-border transactions, must position itself as a core center intersecting with the real economy.

▶ Sources: Busan Ilbo