South Korean University Students Show Growing Interest in Crypto Investments

In a recent survey conducted by Korea Investment and Securities, it was revealed that 40% of South Korean university students are actively investing in cryptocurrencies, including Bitcoin (BTC), alongside overseas stocks. The study involved over 400 university students and sheds light on the evolving investment landscape among young South Koreans.

Crypto and Overseas Stocks: A Dual Approach

The researchers found that while 72% of respondents were investing in overseas stocks, a significant portion (40%) also allocated funds to cryptoassets. Most of these students had purchased shares in New York Stock Exchange-listed companies. Interestingly, even those without existing NYSE portfolios expressed a desire to invest in US stocks within the next 12 months. The allure of cryptoassets lies in their perceived high expected rate of return, with more than half of the crypto investors citing this as their primary motivation. Additionally, one in five respondents believed that cryptocurrencies would hold substantial value in the future.

Lack of Faith in Domestic Markets

The survey results highlight the lack of confidence that young South Koreans have in their domestic stock market. Many students view overseas firms as offering relatively low volatility and stability compared to South Korean stocks. As a result, they are increasingly diversifying their investment portfolios beyond traditional boundaries. Notably, the trend extends beyond crypto and stocks—students are also exploring financial products such as principal-guaranteed assets, exchange-traded funds (ETFs), funds, and bonds.

Growing Investment Appetite

Interestingly, the study reveals a shift in investment behavior over the past two years. While only 18% of respondents had started investing three years ago, that figure has now risen to 54%. These students are making larger investments, with some allocating over $7,180. A small percentage even reported going into debt to finance their investments.

South Korean university students are increasingly embracing cryptoassets as part of their investment strategy, demonstrating a growing appetite for alternative financial instruments beyond traditional markets.