Fairness Debate After Stock Tax Repeal Threatens South Korea Crypto Tax

South Korea’s crypto tax faces renewed delay risks after the repeal of the stock-focused Financial Investment Income Tax (FIIT) intensified fairness objections. The latest development follows a May 22 public petition that rapidly exceeded 50,000 signatures, forcing National Assembly review of the planned levy. Lawmakers now confront investor backlash over taxing crypto gains at 20-22% above 2.5 million won while stock profits remain untaxed. With won-denominated trading still representing 30% of global spot volume and weekly exchange turnover above $26 billion, any postponement would ripple across Asian markets and highlight the need to align digital-asset rules with traditional investments.