Asia Web3 research and consulting firm Tiger Research diagnosed through its '2026 Korea Cryptocurrency Industry Guide' report that "While Korea possesses a world-class cryptocurrency investor base, as of 2026, the Korean cryptocurrency market stands at a turning point where retail (individual) investors are exiting and institutions are entering." The report stated, "As of the end of 2025, the number of domestic cryptocurrency investors reached an all-time high of 11.13 million, but the growth rate is slowing down. The average daily transaction volume decreased by 15% to 5.4 trillion won compared to the first half of 2025, and exchanges' operating profit and loss also plummeted by 38% during the same period. Participants increased, but transactions decreased. Frankly, retail interest is waning. However, during the same period, the inflow of institutions, including KRW stablecoins, is rapidly materializing. The Korean market is still large and fast, but old methods will not work with structural changes," the report emphasized.
