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Google Play will block unregistered foreign crypto exchanges in South Korea
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Only locally registered platforms can remain listed
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Major global exchanges will be affected starting January 28
Google Play will begin blocking overseas cryptocurrency exchanges and wallet apps in South Korea if they are not registered with local authorities.
Under the updated policy, crypto platforms must register as virtual asset service providers with the Korea Financial Intelligence Unit to remain available on the Google Play Store. Starting January 28, Android users in South Korea will no longer be able to download or update apps from unregistered global exchanges.
Only 27 domestic platforms have completed the registration process so far, including major local exchanges. Well-known international platforms such as Binance, Bybit, and OKX have not registered, meaning their apps will effectively disappear from the Play Store for South Korean users.
The registration process is considered extremely difficult for overseas firms, as it requires meeting strict local security and anti-money laundering standards. While users can still access these platforms through web browsers, authorities may extend restrictions further in the future.
South Korea is one of the world’s most active crypto markets, with more than 10 million users. Local media report that some users are already discussing workarounds, such as VPNs and manual app installations, though these methods carry higher security risks.
