South Korean customs investigators have broken up a major international crypto and money laundering network. The group allegedly moved nearly 150 billion won using digital assets and the local banking system.
The case highlights growing concerns about illegal capital flows as digital assets become more widely used.
Three Suspects Charged in Crypto Money Laundering Case
The Korea Customs Service confirmed that it has sent three suspects to prosecutors for breaching the Foreign Exchange Transactions Act. Investigators say the group operated from September 2021 through June 2025.
During this period, the network allegedly disguised illegal transfers as normal personal expenses. This includes cosmetic surgery fees and overseas tuition payments. The suspects reportedly bought digital assets in several countries and sent them to wallets in South Korea.
They then converted the assets into won and spread the money across many local bank accounts. This layered process helped them avoid detection while moving large sums of money.
South Korea Crackdown on Illegal Foreign Exchange Activities
The case comes as South Korean authorities intensify efforts to curb underground money exchange and foreign exchange violations. On January 13, the Korea Customs Service launched year-round intensive inspections aimed at operations that could undermine exchange rate stability.
Officials have raised alarms over widening gaps in foreign exchange data. Last year, the gap between trade proceeds handled by banks and the value of goods reported to customs reached about $290 billion. This was the largest difference recorded in five years.
This imbalance has increased fears of hidden and unlawful capital movement. A separate inspection focused on a specific industry in 2025 revealed widespread violations.
Nearly all surveyed companies were involved in illegal foreign exchange transactions, with the total value reaching more than 2 trillion won.
Crypto Market Growth Draws Closer Scrutiny
The latest enforcement action also places South Korea’s fast-growing crypto market under closer watch. Data from the Financial Services Commission shows that the domestic crypto market reached a value of 95 trillion won by June 2025. Average daily trading volume stood at more than $4 billion.
As digital assets continue to expand in scale and influence, authorities are signaling that they will apply stricter oversight to prevent misuse.
The customs agency said digital currencies will not be allowed as a safe channel for money laundering. It also warned against using crypto to bypass foreign exchange rules.
As the crypto ecosystem continues to evolve, the importance of robust oversight and enforcement measures cannot be overstated.