Busan Crypto Consumer Complaints Surge 37-Fold in First Half of 2026

Consumer complaints tied to cryptocurrency in Busan have surged more than 37-fold year-on-year, according to city government data analyzed by the Naeil Shinmun. The sharp increase highlights growing consumer harm as digital asset trading expands in South Korea’s second-largest city.

Data shows dramatic rise in crypto-related counseling

Busan city government data on consumer counseling cases received by the 1372 Consumer Counseling Center and the city’s Consumer Life Center in the first half of 2026 revealed 150 cryptocurrency-related consultations, up 3,650% from the same period a year earlier. The figure represents a 37-fold increase, reflecting a surge in disputes linked to digital asset exchanges and promotional events.

The spike was largely attributed to an event run by a major digital asset exchange that offered coins to new users. Some participants who met the event conditions did not receive the promised coins, leading to a wave of complaints. The related dispute is currently under resolution procedures, according to the report.

Why this matters for crypto consumers

The sharp rise in complaints underscores the need for greater consumer protection in the rapidly evolving cryptocurrency market. As exchanges compete for new users through aggressive promotions, cases of unmet promises can erode trust and lead to financial losses for individuals unfamiliar with the risks.

For Busan residents, the data serves as a reminder to carefully review the terms of exchange events and to keep records of transactions and communications. Regulatory authorities in South Korea have been stepping up oversight of digital asset businesses, but individual vigilance remains essential.

Implications for the broader crypto market

This incident is not isolated. Across South Korea, similar promotional disputes have emerged as exchanges seek to expand their user bases. The Busan data could prompt other municipalities to monitor complaint trends more closely and may influence how exchanges design future marketing campaigns.

For consumers, the key takeaway is to approach crypto promotions with caution, understand the eligibility criteria, and know how to file a complaint if issues arise. The 1372 Consumer Counseling Center remains a primary channel for resolving such disputes.

Conclusion

The 37-fold increase in crypto-related consumer complaints in Busan reflects growing pains in the digital asset sector. While the specific event dispute remains unresolved, the broader trend signals a need for clearer communication from exchanges and stronger consumer safeguards. As the market matures, both regulators and consumers will need to adapt to prevent similar spikes in the future.

FAQs

Q1: What caused the surge in crypto complaints in Busan?
The surge was primarily driven by a major digital asset exchange event that promised coins to new users but failed to deliver them to some participants. This led to 150 complaints in the first half of 2026, up from just a handful a year earlier.

Q2: How can consumers file a crypto-related complaint in Busan?
Consumers can contact the 1372 Consumer Counseling Center or the Busan Consumer Life Center. These government-run services provide guidance and mediation for disputes with businesses, including cryptocurrency exchanges.

Q3: Are crypto promotions common in South Korea?
Yes, many exchanges run promotional events to attract new users, often offering coins or trading fee discounts. However, these promotions can lead to disputes if terms are unclear or not honored, as seen in the Busan case.