South Korea Plans New Law to Seize Crypto Assets in Civil Cases

South Korea is preparing to introduce a legal framework that would allow courts to seize cryptocurrency assets in civil enforcement cases, as the country moves to modernize its debt recovery system for the digital asset era.

The proposed amendments, published by South Korea’s Supreme Court for public consultation, would establish formal procedures for freezing, transferring, and liquidating cryptocurrencies owned by debtors. If approved, the rules are scheduled to take effect on October 1, 2026. Recently, South Korean firms have disputed OUSD’s claimed alliance partner list, with several denying official ties. The controversy has raised transparency concerns.

New Rules Target Crypto in Civil Enforcement

Under the proposal, cryptocurrencies held on domestic exchanges or with digital asset custodians could be treated similarly to traditional financial assets during civil enforcement proceedings. Once a court issues a seizure order, exchanges would be required to block the debtor from transferring or withdrawing the affected assets.

The proposal also outlines how seized crypto would be handled. Court enforcement officers would be authorized to receive the assets into designated accounts before liquidating them through an exchange or other approved methods. Creditors could also request direct transfers of seized digital assets in certain cases.

Process Covers Illiquid Tokens

The draft rules include provisions for less liquid cryptocurrencies. If a seized token cannot be easily sold, enforcement officers may first convert it into a more liquid cryptocurrency, such as Bitcoin, before completing the sale. The measure is intended to improve the efficiency of asset liquidation and maximize recoverable value.

The amendments also introduce provisional measures allowing courts to freeze cryptocurrency holdings before a final judgment, reducing the risk of debtors moving assets while litigation is ongoing.

Growing Legal Recognition of Digital Assets

The proposal reflects South Korea’s broader effort to adapt its legal system to the country’s expanding cryptocurrency market. While Korean courts have previously recognized digital assets as property that can be subject to seizure in criminal cases, the new framework would establish detailed procedures specifically for civil debt enforcement.

The Supreme Court has opened the draft for public comment until August 11. Following the consultation period, the amendments are expected to be finalized ahead of their planned implementation later this year, providing creditors, courts, and crypto exchanges with clearer legal guidance on handling digital asset seizures, according to local media.

On June, KG Inicis has partnered with Solana to explore stablecoin-based payment infrastructure in South Korea. The initiative aims to support faster, more efficient digital payments using blockchain technology.