South Korea's Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU, 금융정보분석원) announced on October 13, 2026, that the broadcasting and media communications review committee (방송미디어통신심의위원회) had decided to restrict domestic access to 27 currently operating websites of virtual-asset operators that had not made the required report. The reviews took place on October 6 and 7. Depending on where the server or operator is located, the measure may be an access block or termination of service. It follows earlier restrictions on new app installation and updates through major app stores. It is not a prohibition on every virtual-asset trade.
Three figures with different meanings
| Figure | What it refers to |
|---|---|
| 27 | The currently operating sites covered by this access-block decision; they are listed in Annex 2 of the release. |
| 44 | The cumulative number of unreported operators that the FIU had referred to investigators; Annex 1 is a different list. |
| 28 | The number of reported virtual-asset operators cited in the FIU's October 13 release, not a permanent count. |
Whether an overseas operator markets to Korean customers is assessed using factors such as a Korean-language site, marketing to Korean customers and support for won payments. Merely being accessible online, or not appearing in a particular annex, is not evidence that an operator is properly reported.
A practical check for existing users
Look up the current reported virtual-asset operators list on the FIU's official website and compare the registered company rather than relying on a similar-sounding app name. For the 27-site decision, use Annex 2 of the original Korean press release. Annex 1 instead lists referrals for investigation. Sponsored search results, alternative addresses sent by message and referral links are not proof of authorization.
The FIU advises anyone who establishes that an operator is unreported to withdraw their own assets and deposits immediately and avoid providing private keys, login information or identity-card copies. But the authorities also recognize that a block may complicate withdrawals for existing users: they plan, with operators' cooperation, to explain and support withdrawal procedures through DAXA. This is not a promise of access, successful withdrawal or reimbursement. Be wary of anyone offering “recovery” in return for another deposit or a secret key.
The release lists the Korean police emergency line (112), FIU ([email protected]) and DAXA ([email protected]) as channels for reporting suspected illegal operations. Verify contact details on the organizations' current official sites before sharing personal information.
The shorter Life Mokcha Naver article is available in Korean.
About the Author
The Life Mokcha editorial team checked the FIU announcement of October 13 and its two annexes. This summary does not certify an individual operator or guarantee withdrawal.
References
- FIU/FSC press release dated October 13, 2026, including Annexes 1 and 2; FIU official website. The English rendering explains the Korean announcement; consult the original for legal terms.
