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Media Coverage HOTDecent Law Firm: “2025 Virtual Asset Investigations Intensify Across the Board… Pre-Compliance Checks on Business Structures Are Essential”
Analysis suggests that as of 2025, investigations into virtual asset crimes in South Korea have shifted to an "all-encompassing" enforcement regime. Authorities are moving beyond simple fraud cases to scrutinize the entire flow of funds, targeting investment signal groups (so-called “reading rooms”), referral structures, arbitrage trading utilizing the "Kimchi Premium," money laundering via stablecoins, and illegal foreign exchange transactions through unregistered overseas exchanges. According to the Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU), Suspicious Transaction Reports (STRs) related to virtual assets have been steadily increasing since 2021. Data released by the Korea Customs Service and the Customs Border Control Training Center reveals that approximately 11.4 trillion KRW in illegal foreign exchange transactions was detected between 2021 and September 2024. Notably, about 83% of these transactions were analyzed to be illegal foreign exchange trades using virtual assets. Decent Law Firm explained, "Investigative agencies are moving away from traditional fraud investigation methods and are now approaching cases by scrutinizing the entire investment structure and fund movement." The firm added, "Activities such as operating signal groups, referral schemes, exploiting the Kimchi Premium, and stablecoin-based illegal forex trading can all be linked to charges of fraud, violation of the Act on Regulation of Conducting Fund-Raising Business Without Permission (similar to Ponzi schemes), the Capital Markets Act, the Foreign Exchange Transactions Act, and the Act on Reporting and Using Specified Financial Transaction Information (AML regulations), depending on the actual flow of funds." Focus on “Signal Groups” and Referral Systems One of the primary areas currently under scrutiny is "investment signal groups" based on Telegram or Open Chat rooms, as well as referral-based recruitment structures. A typical pattern involves recruiting investors with promises of high returns, inducing them to transfer funds to unregistered overseas exchanges or personal wallets, and operating based on referral fees. Authorities view that if this structure is combined with false or exaggerated advertising, it constitutes fraud. Furthermore, collecting investment funds from unspecified individuals may violate the Act on Regulation of Conducting Fund-Raising Business Without Permission, and if the operation involves investment advice or discretionary management, it could be deemed an unregistered investment advisory service. Crackdown on Kimchi Premium Arbitrage Arbitrage trading exploiting the "Kimchi Premium" remains a target for enforcement. While the premium gap has narrowed in 2025, illegal arbitrage and foreign exchange attempts using it persist. In particular, collecting funds from third parties for repeated remittances or distributing profits using borrowed-name or corporate accounts can lead to charges under the Foreign Exchange Transactions Act, tax evasion, and money laundering. Evolving Methods: Stablecoins and Illegal Forex Trading Methods for illegal foreign exchange transactions using overseas unregistered exchanges and stablecoins are becoming more sophisticated. Recently, investigators have uncovered cases of "coin-based illegal forex trading," where cash is received in Korea and an equivalent amount of Tether (USDT) is transferred to a third party abroad. This method is harder to detect than traditional dollar-based illegal forex trading and raises concerns about its use in large-scale money laundering. Strengthened AML Regulations Simultaneously, Anti-Money Laundering (AML) regulations for domestic Virtual Asset Service Providers (VASPs) have been significantly tightened. The government is intensively monitoring exchanges, wallet services, and custody providers for compliance with STR obligations, the Travel Rule, and high-risk wallet blocking systems. There are increasing instances where failures in internal controls lead not just to administrative sanctions but to criminal liability. Expert Advice: “Pre-Compliance is the Best Defense” Jin Hyeonsu, Managing Partner of Decent Law Firm, emphasized, "The era of operating a business hoping 'there won't be any problems' is over as of 2025." He advised, "From the initial business stage, companies must comprehensively review their fee structures, referral methods, investment solicitation procedures, contracts, terms of service, and fund flows." He further noted, "Defending legally after an investigation has already begun has its limits. Pre-compliance checks and structural design are the most realistic strategies for risk management." Decent Law Firm operates a dedicated Virtual Asset Team and has accumulated extensive practical experience through successful early-stage defense cases—including non-indictment decisions and dismissal of arrest warrants—as well as regular legal advisory services for blockchain enterprises. Experts advise that with 2025 marking a turning point where both criminal investigations and administrative regulations on virtual assets are being simultaneously strengthened, industry players must adopt a management strategy focused on "pre-check" rather than "post-response."
2025-12-05 Tokenpost -
Blogs NEW
Emergency Arrest in Korea: Why the First 48 Hours Are Critical
Once a suspect is arrested in South Korea, the police and prosecution must decide within 48 hours whether to request a detention warrant (imprisonment pending trial) or release the individual. During this brief window, critical procedures take place: 1–2 rounds of police interrogation. Search and seizure of mobile phones and residence. Formalization of criminal charges. Consultation with the prosecution regarding the necessity of detention. The initial police report created during this time often dictates the entire outcome of the case. Therefore, immediate intervention by a criminal defense lawyer to manage statements and control legal procedures is paramount. 1. The Role of the Lawyer Immediately After Arrest Decent Law Firm’s specialized criminal defense team visits the suspect immediately upon arrest. We identify the cause and circumstances of the arrest and quickly determine the best strategy: whether to construct a specific narrative or to exercise the right to remain silent. Since it is extremely difficult to retract early statements later, setting the initial direction is vital. We also review: Whether the requirements for "Emergency Arrest" were met. Whether a "Flagrant Delicament" (caught in the act) arrest was applicable. If Miranda rights were properly read during a warrant arrest. If search and seizure procedures exceeded their legal scope. We block leading questions during interrogations and protect the suspect from making distorted or self-incriminating statements. 2. Strategy to Prevent a Detention Warrant Police and prosecutors determine the necessity of detention based on flight risk, risk of destroying evidence, severity of the crime, and lack of social ties. The Decent Law Firm Criminal Defense Team rapidly secures evidence to prove the suspect's stability and reliability: Proof of stable residence, employment, and family ties. Evidence that the suspect’s role in the alleged crime was limited. Arguments that most evidence has already been secured (negating the risk of destruction). If a warrant application is expected, we prepare legal opinions for the Warrant Review Hearing (Habeas Corpus) and coach the suspect on how to answer the judge’s questions. Proper initial preparation significantly increases the chances of the warrant being dismissed. 3. What the Family Should Do Immediately Families often panic and fail to act, but their role is crucial. Locate the Suspect: Find out where they are detained and who the investigating officer is. Hire a Lawyer: Secure a criminal defense lawyer immediately. Avoid Bad Advice: Do not tell the suspect to "just tell the truth" without legal counsel; this can backfire. Gather Documents: Prepare documents proving the suspect's residence, job, and family relationships to help the lawyer build a defense against detention. 4. Decent Law Firm’s 48-Hour Response System At Decent Law Firm, we know that speed is everything in arrest cases. We operate a specialized system that focuses intensely on the first 48 hours: Immediate Visitation: To control initial statements. Procedural Check: To identify any illegalities in the arrest or search process. Warrant Defense: To prepare for the substantive review hearing immediately. The records left in the first few hours can decide the verdict. If you or a loved one is currently under arrest or facing a crisis, contact Decent Law Firm without delay. We are ready to fight for you.
2025-12-05 Blog -
Blogs
Criminal Defense for Foreign Nationals in Korea
Integrated Expertise in Investigation, Trial, and Immigration Consequences 1. Unique Challenges in Criminal Cases Involving Foreign Nationals When a foreign national becomes involved in a criminal case in Korea, the difficulty extends far beyond legal issues. Language barriers, limited cultural understanding, and unfamiliar procedures make the process significantly more complex. The Constitutional Court of Korea has affirmed that foreign nationals have the same constitutional right to a fair trial and to personal liberty. Key issues commonly arise in the following areas: Jurisdiction Korean courts may have jurisdiction even if the alleged offense occurred outside Korea (Criminal Act Articles 5–6). Interpretation Accuracy Under Article 180 of the Criminal Procedure Act, inadequate interpretation can restrict a defendant’s right to defense. Immigration Consequences A conviction can immediately affect visa extension, status of stay, or even lead to deportation (Immigration Control Act Article 85). 2. Protection of Rights During Investigation and Trial Foreign nationals are entitled to the same right to counsel as Korean citizens. However, due to language barriers, the lawyer’s role becomes even more critical. Right to Counsel Constitutionally protected from the earliest stage of investigation. Accurate Interpretation Precise interpretation is indispensable for a fair trial. Consular Assistance Foreign defendants may request assistance from their home country’s consulate. During trial, misinterpretation and cultural misunderstandings can affect credibility judgments. Courts must consider the unique nature of foreign national cases when evaluating evidence. 3. Criminal Proceedings and Immigration Measures Foreign nationals face interconnected criminal and immigration consequences: Deportation Deportation may proceed immediately after a sentence is served (Immigration Control Act Article 85). Exit Ban The Minister of Justice may impose an exit ban during investigation or trial (Article 29). Protection of Foreign Victims Victims of human trafficking or similar crimes may receive special protections such as stay extensions or deferred deportation. Our Approach: Decent Law Firm’s Strategy for Foreign National Cases Decent Law Firm prioritizes understanding the client’s language, cultural background, and communication style. Effective communication is essential to identifying the facts accurately and preventing unnecessary misunderstandings in court. We analyze each case from both a criminal law perspective and an immigration perspective, recognizing that foreign national matters involve both domains simultaneously. Supported by the Constitutional Court’s interpretation of treaty obligations (Korean Constitution Article 6(2)), we ensure that international rights and treaty protections are fully considered. When necessary, we engage in international judicial cooperation, including obtaining evidence abroad and seeking recognition of foreign court decisions—tasks that require specialized cross-border experience. 4. Our Team’s Strength in International Matters Our attorneys include graduates of New York University (NYU) and the University of Michigan, with extensive experience navigating global criminal and immigration issues. We provide full-scope support from: Early-stage investigation Court representation Post-conviction immigration measures (deportation, visa revocation, overstay issues) Decent Law Firm is committed to standing by foreign nationals who face legal difficulties in an unfamiliar country—protecting their rights from the beginning to the very end.
2025-11-28 Blog -
Media Coverage
Decent Law Firm Conducts 6th Compliance and Ethics Training on Virtual Assets for Crypto Media Group
Decent Law Firm announced that on October 21, 2025, it delivered the 6th Virtual Asset Compliance and Ethics Training program for the executives and employees of Crypto Media Group Co., Ltd. This training was designed as a practical program aimed at preventing legal risks in the virtual asset industry while strengthening corporate ethical decision-making frameworks and internal control systems. The session was held offline at Decent Law Firm’s headquarters, with key operational staff from Crypto Media Group in attendance. Discussions focused on legal standards and response strategies that can be applied immediately in day-to-day operations. The training covered major legal and ethical issues frequently encountered in the virtual asset sector, including legal risks relating to cryptocurrency transactions, duties of good faith and contractual performance, protection of internal information and conflict-of-interest management, and legal standards for determining fraudulent practices. It also incorporated key provisions of the Virtual Asset User Protection Act, the Capital Markets Act, and the Act on Reporting and Using Specified Financial Transaction Information (the “AML Act”), along with an overview of the principal issues under the proposed Digital Asset Framework Act currently pending before the National Assembly. Based on these laws, the session provided concrete operational guidelines and internal control measures for running a compliant and transparent virtual-asset business. Mr. Seonghwan Kim, CEO of Crypto Media Group, stated, “As the virtual asset industry continues to integrate into the regulatory mainstream, enhancing compliance awareness among our employees and partners is essential to maintaining corporate trust. We plan to strengthen our risk-management systems and conduct regular training in cooperation with Decent Law Firm.” Mr. Hyunsoo Jin, Managing Partner of Decent Law Firm, added, “The virtual asset industry remains in a transitional period where legal standards are still developing. During such times, it becomes even more important for businesses to establish their own compliance principles and operate responsibly within clear boundaries.” Decent Law Firm provides specialized advisory and dispute-resolution services to domestic and global exchanges, Web3 projects, and investment firms across virtual assets, blockchain, and cross-border transactions. Building on this training program, the firm plans to further expand its regular compliance-education offerings to promote a culture of voluntary compliance and responsible governance in the virtual asset industry.
2025-10-27 Financial News(파이낸셜뉴스) -
Media Coverage
Decent Law Firm Unveils New Slogan and Logo, Embarking on a Customer-Centric Brand Transformation
Decent Law Firm announced on July 3 that it has launched a new slogan and logo as part of a comprehensive rebranding initiative. This transformation reflects the firm's commitment to strengthening its legal service framework for the digital era, building on three years of accumulated expertise and robust growth. New Slogan: “Where Your Answers Await, Decent” The newly unveiled slogan, “Where Your Answers Await, Decent,” encapsulates the firm’s philosophy of being the first legal partner that comes to mind when clients need support the most. In addition, Decent introduced a new brand message: “Different, Add, Knock.” This message highlights the firm’s approach of asking unique questions, delivering value beyond legal solutions, and persistently seeking answers—even when faced with seemingly insurmountable challenges. Enhanced Logo for Greater Trust and Professionalism The newly designed logo harmoniously integrates the English “DECENT” and the Korean name, emphasizing both professionalism and trust. The design has evolved from its previous sleek style to a more stable and traditional look, ensuring high readability and visibility across digital platforms. Leadership Comments on the Rebranding Managing Partner Hyunsoo Jin stated, “Since our founding, Decent has experienced explosive growth year after year. This rebranding marks a pivotal moment to refine our internal systems and elevate our external communications. We will continue to evolve as a flexible and trusted brand across diverse legal fields.” Managing Partner Pureun Hong added, “A brand ultimately embodies philosophy and attitude. Decent will further clarify its direction as a law firm that listens attentively to clients’ questions and strives to find answers together.” Expanding Global and Digital Legal Services Decent Law Firm has recently expanded its advisory scope to cover international matters in the United States, Japan, China, Singapore, the Philippines, and more—strengthening its global legal services for corporate overseas expansion, international contracts, and dispute resolution. Notably, the firm is building a distinct competitive edge by offering comprehensive and strategic legal counsel tailored to the rapidly evolving legal landscape of digital industries, including AI, ICT, blockchain and digital assets, content/media, and fintech.
2025-07-03 News1(뉴스원) -
Media Coverage
Voice Phishing Scams Using Wallet Addresses: Rising Threats in the Crypto Space
Criminals are increasingly exploiting cryptocurrencies in voice phishing scams, coercing victims into directly transferring Bitcoin (BTC), Tether (USDT), and other digital assets. Unlike traditional bank transfer schemes, these scams lead victims to withdraw from crypto exchanges or transfer between wallets—making funds significantly harder to trace. In many cases, perpetrators contact victims under the guise of “debt recovery,” “investment refunds,” or “international remittance processing,” and then request crypto transfers. Once received, the assets are quickly dispersed through multiple transactions, complicating any attempts at tracking. In some instances, assets sent from domestic exchanges have been moved to overseas wallets within hours or disappeared through mixing services. (omitted) Hyunsoo Jin, Managing Attorney at Decent Law Firm, stated, “Crypto-based voice phishing scams are far more difficult to recover from compared to traditional account-based fraud. Rapid initial response and preservation of digital evidence are crucial. It’s important to secure transaction history, wallet addresses, exchange account data, and phone recordings to support both criminal complaints and civil recovery.” He added, “If the scammers’ wallets or exchanges can be identified, victims may request emergency freezes or pursue international cooperation through investigative agencies. Immediate legal consultation is essential for assessing the situation and pursuing both criminal and civil remedies in parallel.”
2025-04-14 경향게임스
