Svmuureports that the Financial Services Commission (FSC) of South Korea is reviewing whether Hana Bank's acquisition of shares in Dunamu violates the regulatory rule of "separation between finance and virtual assets."
The Virtual Asset Department of the FSC stated that Hana Bank indirectly holds equity in Dunamu by acquiring shares in Kakao Investment. This essentially constitutes an investment in a virtual asset trading platform and will therefore be reviewed under the same regulatory standards.
According to reports, since 2017, the South Korean government has restricted financial institutions from holding or purchasing virtual assets or making equity investments in related companies through administrative guidance. If ultimately found to be in violation, Hana Bank's related transaction may not proceed.
Additionally, Mirae Asset Consulting is currently pushing forward with the acquisition of management rights for Kobit, while Korea Investment & Securities remains cautious about related businesses. Hana Bank had previously announced plans to acquire approximately 6.55% of Dunamu's shares, but did not consult with regulators beforehand. (iNews24)