$253 Billion by 2030: Korea's Tokenized Asset and Stablecoin Market Outlook
RWA Signal Insight
InfrastructureThe South Korean crypto market is pivoting from a stagnant, fee-dependent trading model toward a future centered on tokenized real-world assets and stablecoins. Tiger Research projects this domestic market will reach KRW 360 trillion, approximately $253 billion, by 2030, with KRW 315 trillion in tokenized assets and KRW 45 trillion in stablecoins. This transition is supported by the upcoming 2027 regulatory rollout following the passage of token securities bills in early 2026. Major financial institutions including Shinhan, KB, Hana, and Kyobo Securities are actively building infrastructure and forming strategic global partnerships to facilitate this shift. These firms are moving away from niche fractional investments toward high-liquidity traditional assets like corporate bonds and money market funds. By integrating with global blockchain networks and technology providers, Korean institutions aim to align with international standards for on-chain finance. This strategic evolution is essential for the market to overcome current growth limitations and establish a sustainable digital asset ecosystem.
Key points
- Korea's tokenized asset market is projected to reach KRW 360 trillion by 2030.
- Token securities legislation passed in January 2026 with implementation scheduled for February 2027.
- Financial institutions have invested KRW 2.35 trillion into crypto exchange equity stakes.
- Major Korean firms are partnering with Solana, Ripple, Circle, and Securitize for infrastructure.
Background
Tokenization involves bringing traditional financial assets, such as bonds or money market funds, onto a blockchain to improve settlement efficiency and liquidity. In Korea, this process is governed by amendments to the Electronic Securities Act and the Capital Markets Act, which provide the legal framework for issuing and trading digital securities.