South Korea to Mandate Public Disclosure of Crypto Holdings for High-Ranking Officials in 2024
This proactive approach reflects South Korea's commitment to staying ahead of the curve in the rapidly evolving world of digital assets.
In a groundbreaking move for transparency and ethical governance, South Korea is set to require high-ranking public officials to disclose their cryptocurrency holdings starting in 2024. This bold step promises to boost public trust and pave the way for a more responsible crypto future for the nation, according to news report The Block.
"This initiative signals a new era of openness and accountability," declared Kim Seung-ho, South Korea's Minister of Personnel Management. "By shining a light on officials' crypto assets, we're building a stronger, more credible public service that serves the people with unwavering integrity."
The policy shift follows the passage of two bills in May, specifically designed to incorporate crypto into existing asset disclosure requirements for elected officials and high-ranking government personnel.
To streamline the process, the Ministry of Personnel Management is partnering with five major domestic cryptocurrency exchanges – Upbit, Bithumb, Coinone, Korbit, and Gopax – to develop a dedicated information system by June 2024. This innovative platform will simplify property registration for officials and ensure data accuracy.
But South Korea's ambition extends beyond the public sector. In June, lawmakers passed 19 comprehensive crypto-related bills, empowering the Financial Services Commission (FSC) and the Bank of Korea to oversee crypto operators and asset custodians. This robust regulatory framework aims to safeguard investors and establish clear guidelines for responsible industry practices.
Furthermore, the FSC announced in July that new accounting rules will come into effect in 2024, requiring domestic companies to disclose their crypto holdings. Issuers will also be mandated to provide detailed information about their tokens, business models, and internal accounting policies.
This is not just about crypto – it's about building a future where public officials stand shoulder-to-shoulder with the people they serve, guided by the unwavering principles of transparency and ethical conduct. In this way, South Korea's bold move to shed light on crypto holdings sends a powerful message that resonates far beyond the realm of digital currencies, serving as a beacon of hope for a more responsible and trustworthy future.
