Cheongju’s Landmark Crypto Seizure: South Korean City Successfully Sells Digital Assets from Tax Delinquents

In a definitive move blending digital finance with public policy, the South Korean city of Cheongju has successfully converted seized cryptocurrency into public funds, setting a powerful precedent for local tax enforcement nationwide. The city of Cheongju in South Korea’s North Chungcheong Province has sold cryptocurrency seized from high-value and habitual local tax delinquents, Newsis reported. This action, finalized in late 2024, represents the first completed sale since the city initiated its seizure program in 2021, signaling a maturing approach to governing digital asset ownership.

Cheongju’s Cryptocurrency Seizure and Sale Mechanism

The city government collected approximately 21 million won, equivalent to $15,200, by liquidating digital assets from 12 individuals. Authorities executed these sales through the major South Korean cryptocurrency exchange Upbit. Furthermore, the city is currently in the process of selling assets seized from eight additional delinquents on another premier platform, Bithumb. This two-exchange strategy demonstrates a practical understanding of market liquidity and regulatory compliance.

This enforcement action specifically targets high-value and habitual tax delinquents. Consequently, the policy focuses on individuals with significant overdue tax bills who have repeatedly failed to settle their obligations through conventional means. The seized assets represent a new frontier in asset recovery, moving beyond traditional bank accounts and real property.

• Target: High-value, habitual tax delinquents.
• Platforms: Upbit (completed sales), Bithumb (ongoing sales).
• Initial Yield: 21 million won (~$15,200) from 12 cases.
• Legal Basis: Local Tax Collection Act enabling seizure of property.

The Evolution of South Korea’s Digital Asset Tax Policy

Cheongju’s action did not occur in a vacuum. Instead, it builds upon a national framework that has evolved rapidly since 2017. South Korea established stringent regulations for cryptocurrency exchanges, mandating real-name bank account verification. Subsequently, the government introduced a comprehensive crypto taxation framework. This framework includes a 20% tax on crypto trading profits above 2.5 million won, which took full effect recently.

Local governments like Cheongju now possess the technical and legal tools to identify, seize, and liquidate digital assets. This capability marks a significant shift. Previously, tax authorities struggled with the pseudonymous and decentralized nature of cryptocurrencies. Now, cooperation with licensed exchanges provides a clear on-ramp for enforcement.