18-7-2025 – Shinhan Bank, South Korea’s second-largest commercial bank, has introduced cryptocurrency services on its SOL mobile app, marking a significant step toward mainstream crypto adoption, first reported by Field News. The new features include real-time price monitoring for various crypto assets, beginner-friendly guides, and professional market reports, aimed at educating and protecting customers.
While the SOL app does not yet support direct crypto trading, Shinhan plans to integrate with its partner exchange, Korbit, to enable buying and selling in the future. Users will also be able to check their crypto wallet balances directly on the platform. Shinhan’s move comes as South Korea’s Financial Services Commission (FSC) prepares to allow corporate crypto investments later this year, signaling a shift toward a more crypto-friendly regulatory environment. No other domestic bank has launched similar services, though some are exploring crypto-related projects.
Shinhan’s dedicated digital asset taskforce, established earlier this year, is driving its crypto ambitions. The bank has already conducted stablecoin-based overseas remittance pilots and is working on a token-powered cross-border payment system. It also registered a trademark for a won-pegged stablecoin, KRWSH, joining South Korea’s growing stablecoin trend. Shinhan’s partnership with Korbit, one of five licensed exchanges offering KRW-crypto pairings, further strengthens its position in the digital asset space.
The bank emphasized that its new tools aim to enhance consumer protection and promote informed investing, particularly for those new to crypto. With South Korea’s crypto market booming—over 9.6 million accounts hold assets worth $68 billion across major exchanges—this initiative could set a precedent for other financial institutions.
