South Korea\'s simple payment companies are expanding where their services can be used by linking existing networks and supplying payment infrastructure to new sectors. Banks and internet-only lenders are also widening mobile lending and alternative credit offerings. Regulators and the government are moving on youth savings, transport fare support and payment security checks. After-hours trading has extended KOSPI and KOSDAQ hours to 8 p.m., while debate continues over digital asset taxation and related infrastructure.

South Korea\'s People Power Party said it will re-examine the current digital asset tax framework, including the planned start in January 2027. It cited difficulty in accurately identifying investors\' acquisition costs and gains due to trading via overseas exchanges and personal wallets. The party also raised concerns about tax fairness between digital assets and stocks after the financial investment income tax was abolished. It called for clearer rules for staking and DeFi and alignment with the Digital Asset Basic Act under discussion in parliament.