South Korea Confirms 2027 Crypto Tax Start After Third Delay

People Power Party lawmaker Kim Sang-hoon challenged the minister on the lack of a loss carryforward deduction in the crypto tax framework. He argued the gap could reduce domestic demand for digital assets and push trading toward overseas platforms.

Koo compared the treatment to stock market losses. "Losses are not carried forward; instead, they are classified as other income," he said. He added that officials plan to review the framework once the tax is in effect.

Koo was also asked about aligning crypto tax rules with overseas capital gains models. "Not only digital assets but the entire capital market must be viewed comprehensively," he responded. Any structural changes would need to consider the full investment system.

The January 2027 start date now stands without further postponement planned. Koo said the government would adjust rules only after real-world implementation data becomes available.

South Korea remains one of the world's largest retail crypto markets. Analysts have warned that taxation could push some activity toward less regulated venues. The minister's comments suggest the government sees that risk as manageable.