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South Korea

Cryptocurrency Tax Information

Updated October 23, 2025
Capital Gains: 20%Income Tax: 6-45%
Tax Summary

South Korea plans to implement cryptocurrency capital gains tax starting January 1, 2025. Currently, crypto is taxed under income tax rules if considered income. Regulations aim to treat virtual assets as financial assets for taxation.

Capital Gains Tax
20%
- Crypto capital gains are classified as other income.
- Gains are taxable when realized through sales or exchanges, effective from 2025.
- Exemption for annual gains under 2.5 million KRW.
- Tax applies only to gains exceeding the threshold; calculated as sale price minus acquisition cost.
Income Tax
6-45%
- Mining income is taxed as business income under progressive rates.
- Staking rewards are treated as miscellaneous income and taxed accordingly.
- Other crypto income, like airdrops or forks, is considered miscellaneous income.
- Income must be reported if it meets general income thresholds; no specific crypto deductions.
Reporting Requirements
- All crypto transactions over certain thresholds must be reported by virtual asset service providers.
- Individuals report via annual income tax returns.
- Required forms include income tax return forms with crypto details.
- Key deadline is May 31 for annual filings.
Special Notes
- Crypto tax implementation delayed multiple times, latest to 2025.
- NFTs may be taxed differently based on classification as art or assets.
- Foreign residents may face withholding tax on crypto income.
- Government considering tax incentives for long-term holdings.
Recent News
Latest updates about crypto taxes in South Korea

South Korea Delays Crypto Tax to 2025

The South Korean government has postponed the 20% capital gains tax on cryptocurrencies until 2025 to allow more preparation time for investors and exchanges. This marks the third delay amid market volatility.

July 15, 2024

Korea to Tax Crypto Gains Above 2.5M KRW

Starting 2025, crypto profits exceeding 2.5 million KRW will be taxed at 20%, as per the latest finance ministry announcement. This aims to regulate the growing virtual asset market.

June 20, 2024

Impact of Crypto Tax Delay on Investors

The delay in South Korea's crypto tax provides relief to traders, but experts warn of potential future hikes. Market reactions have been mixed with increased trading volumes.

May 10, 2024

NFT Taxation Rules Clarified in Korea

South Korea's tax authority states NFTs will be taxed as capital gains if sold for profit, aligning with upcoming crypto rules. Creators may face income tax on sales.

April 25, 2024

Crypto Exchanges Prepare for 2025 Tax Regime

Major Korean exchanges like Upbit are upgrading systems to comply with new reporting requirements for the 2025 tax rollout. This includes transaction tracking for users.

March 18, 2024

Government Considers Crypto Tax Incentives

South Korea is exploring tax breaks for long-term crypto holders to encourage investment. Discussions are ongoing in the National Assembly.

February 14, 2024

Staking Rewards Taxation in South Korea

The finance ministry clarified that staking rewards will be taxed as income at progressive rates, even before the full crypto tax implementation. This affects DeFi users.

January 9, 2024

Crypto Tax Evasion Crackdown Announced

South Korean authorities plan stricter audits on crypto transactions to prevent tax evasion ahead of 2025 rules. Penalties for non-compliance will increase.

December 5, 2023

Public Consultation on Crypto Tax Threshold

The government is seeking public input on adjusting the 2.5 million KRW tax exemption threshold for crypto gains. Responses will influence final regulations.

November 22, 2023

Impact of Global Crypto Taxes on Korea

As OECD countries standardize crypto reporting, South Korea aligns its policies, potentially accelerating local tax enforcement. This could affect cross-border trades.

October 30, 2023

Disclaimer: This information is AI-generated and for educational purposes only. Tax laws are complex and subject to change. Always consult with a qualified tax professional for advice specific to your situation.