World Vision Korea Leads Nonprofit Crypto Trading Shift
Fhumulani Lukoto
- 2 min read
Key Takeaways
First Nonprofit to Trade Crypto Post-Ban
World Vision Korea became the first nonprofit in South Korea to trade cryptocurrency after the government lifted its ban on institutional crypto trading.
Crypto Donation Campaign for Youth
The Ether sold was donated through a March campaign encouraging Upbit users to support underprivileged students with school supplies.
New Regulatory Framework in Place
The trade was made possible under new FSC guidelines, which allow nonprofits to hold and sell crypto under strict compliance and transparency rules.
In a landmark move, World Vision Korea has become the first nonprofit organisation in South Korea to trade cryptocurrency, following the government’s recent lifting of a ban on institutional crypto trading.
Overview
According to a June 1 2025, statement from Dunamu, the parent company of Upbit, World Vision Korea sold 0.55 Ethereum (ETH), with the transaction valued at approximately 1.98 million won, or around $1,436. This development marks a significant shift in the nation’s approach to digital assets, opening new avenues for charitable organisations to engage with crypto.
The Ether, held by Chairman Myung-hwan, was donated through a March campaign inviting Upbit users to contribute crypto to support underprivileged youth needing essentials like school uniforms and backpacks.
A Historic Crypto Transaction
Ether was part of donations received during the “Cheer Up!” campaign in March, encouraging Upbit users to contribute crypto assets to support underprivileged youth needing school supplies. The transaction was facilitated through a verified corporate account linked to K-Bank, complying with the new regulatory framework set by South Korea’s Financial Services Commission (FSC).
Regulatory Reforms Enable Nonprofit Participation
The FSC’s updated guidelines, practical from June 1, permit nonprofit organisations and virtual asset exchanges to sell cryptocurrencies under stringent compliance standards. To qualify, nonprofits must have at least five years of audited financial history and establish internal Donation Review Committees to oversee the acceptance and liquidation of crypto donations.
Exchanges can liquidate user fees paid in crypto, provided they adhere to Know Your Customer (KYC) and Anti-Money Laundering (AML) regulations. These reforms are part of a broader initiative to integrate digital assets responsibly into South Korea’s financial system. Later this year, the FSC plans to extend trading permissions to publicly listed companies and professional investment institutions, signalling a gradual easing of the institutional crypto trading ban imposed in 2017.
Implications for the Nonprofit Sector and Beyond
World Vision Korea’s successful crypto transaction sets a precedent for other nonprofit organisations in South Korea. By embracing crypto donations, nonprofits can tap into new fundraising channels, potentially increasing their reach and impact. This move also reflects a growing acceptance of digital assets in mainstream financial activities, encouraging further adoption across various sectors.
The FSC’s progressive stance fosters innovation while ensuring financial stability and compliance. As the regulatory environment continues to evolve, South Korea positions itself as a forward-thinking player in the global crypto landscape, balancing the benefits of digital asset integration with the need for robust oversight.
World Vision Korea’s pioneering step into cryptocurrency trading enhances its fundraising capabilities and paves the way for broader institutional participation in the digital economy. As regulatory frameworks adapt, the intersection of philanthropy and technology in South Korea is poised for significant growth.
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Fhumulani Lukoto
Cryptocurrency Journalist
Fhumulani Lukoto holds a Bachelors Degree in Journalism enabling her to become the writer she is today. Her passion for cryptocurrency and bitcoin started in 2021 when she began producing content in the space. A naturally inquisitive person, she dove head first into all things crypto to gain the huge wealth of knowledge she has today. Based out of Gauteng, South Africa, Fhumulani is a core member of the content team at Coin Insider.