Rich South Koreans favour safe-haven, digital assets

Wealthy South Koreans are increasingly shifting away from real estate in favour of safer and diversified assets, according to the 2025 Korea Wealth Report by Hana Institute of Finance. Among respondents with over KRW1bn (USD704,331) in financial assets, 40.4% plan to boost savings, while 32.2% favour gold, 32% prefer bonds, and 29.2% are eyeing ETFs. Interest in real estate declined, with buying intent falling to 44% from 50% last year. Meanwhile, cryptocurrency investment is growing, with over half of virtual asset investors intending to continue in 2025. The “young rich” under-40 segment are driving the trend, raising foreign equity exposure to 40% of portfolios. Researchers noted a shift toward financial assets as the wealthy adapt to economic uncertainty and digital asset opportunities.