Kiwoom Securities, a major South Korean financial firm, is reportedly in talks to acquire a stake in Bithumb, the country’s second-largest cryptocurrency exchange, according to a Chosun Biz report on June 29, 2026. The potential deal highlights the growing convergence between traditional finance and the digital asset industry in South Korea.
Citing investment banking and crypto sector sources, the report says the two parties are negotiating a third-party allotment of new shares, under which Bithumb would issue shares specifically for Kiwoom to purchase. The exact stake size and investment amount remain undecided. A Bithumb official confirmed the exchange is exploring partnerships with various financial entities but said no specific agreement has been reviewed or finalized, declining further comment.
If completed, the deal would give Kiwoom—already expanding its digital asset services—direct exposure to one of Asia’s most liquid crypto markets. For Bithumb, the partnership could provide capital and institutional credibility as it competes with market leader Upbit and faces ongoing regulatory scrutiny. The move could also signal to other traditional institutions that South Korea’s regulatory environment is mature enough for such investments, potentially triggering a wave of similar partnerships.
