Bitcoin
South Korea Approves Landmark Bill Allowing National Pension Fund to Invest in Bitcoin

On May 16, 2025, South Korea made a groundbreaking move in the world of institutional finance by passing a historic bill that permits its National Pension Service (NPS), one of the largest pension funds globally, to directly invest in Bitcoin. This decision marks a significant shift in the country’s approach to digital assets, reflecting a growing acceptance of cryptocurrencies in mainstream financial systems and potentially setting a precedent for other nations to follow.
A Bold Step for the National Pension Service
The NPS, managing assets worth approximately $800 billion as of early 2025, oversees the retirement savings of millions of South Koreans. Historically cautious about cryptocurrencies, the fund had previously limited its exposure to the sector through indirect investments, such as purchasing shares in crypto-related companies like MicroStrategy and Coinbase. In 2024, the NPS invested $34 million in MicroStrategy, a firm known for its substantial Bitcoin holdings, and over $45 million in Coinbase shares, signaling early interest in the crypto space.
The newly passed legislation, however, allows the NPS to allocate a portion of its portfolio directly to Bitcoin, a move backed by bipartisan support from South Korea’s political leaders. Presidential candidates from both the ruling People Power Party and the opposition Democratic Party have endorsed the integration of digital assets into public investment strategies. Lee Jae-myung, a leading Democratic Party candidate, has advocated for approving spot Bitcoin ETFs to create a secure investment environment, particularly for younger generations who have shown significant interest in cryptocurrencies—over 16 million South Koreans are now crypto investors.
Legislative and Political Backing
The bill’s passage follows months of debate and aligns with broader legislative efforts to modernize South Korea’s financial systems. Earlier in 2025, the country’s parliament passed reforms to shore up the NPS, which had been projected to deplete by 2056 due to an aging population and declining contributions. These reforms, which included increasing contribution rates to 13% over the next eight years, aimed to delay the fund’s depletion by 15 years. The decision to allow Bitcoin investments is seen as part of a broader strategy to diversify the NPS portfolio and seek higher returns in a rapidly evolving global market.
South Korea’s move also comes amid a global trend of institutional adoption of cryptocurrencies. The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission’s approval of spot Bitcoin ETFs in 2024 has spurred interest from pension funds worldwide, with entities like the State of Wisconsin Investment Board and the State of Michigan Retirement System allocating millions to Bitcoin ETFs. South Korea’s decision to allow direct Bitcoin investments, rather than limiting exposure to ETFs, positions the NPS as a pioneer among global public pension funds.
Market Implications and Sentiment
The announcement has sparked widespread excitement in the crypto community, with posts on X reflecting bullish sentiment. Many view this as a signal that Bitcoin is transitioning from a speculative asset to a legitimate component of national financial strategies. The timing is notable, as Bitcoin’s price has stabilized around $103,000 in May 2025, following a 10% rally earlier in the month driven by global trade deals and strong corporate accumulation. The recent $319 million in U.S. spot Bitcoin ETF inflows on May 14 further underscores the growing institutional demand for the asset.
South Korea’s decision could amplify this trend, potentially triggering a wave of institutional FOMO (fear of missing out) globally. Analysts suggest that direct Bitcoin purchases by an $800 billion pension fund could significantly tighten supply, given that Bitcoin’s circulating supply is already constrained by long-term holders and corporate accumulators like MicroStrategy, which holds over 226,500 BTC as of early 2025.
Challenges and Criticisms
Despite the optimism, the move is not without controversy. Critics, including some lawmakers and financial experts, have raised concerns about Bitcoin’s volatility and the risks it poses to public funds. The cryptocurrency market has a history of sharp corrections—two years ago, Bitcoin’s price hovered around $20,000 before surging to its current levels. Opponents argue that a sudden downturn could jeopardize the retirement savings of millions of South Koreans, especially given the NPS’s projected challenges with an aging population.
Moreover, the South Korean government’s previous stance on cryptocurrencies has been mixed. In 2018, the NPS indirectly invested 2.6 billion won in local crypto exchanges like Upbit, Bithumb, and Korbit, even as regulators sought to impose strict controls on the market. The Ministry of Strategy and Finance at the time called such investments “inappropriate,” highlighting the tension between innovation and financial stability. The current bill, however, includes safeguards, such as limiting the NPS’s Bitcoin allocation to a small percentage of its portfolio and requiring rigorous risk assessments, to mitigate these concerns.
A Step Toward Mainstream Adoption
South Korea’s decision to allow its national pension fund to invest in Bitcoin is a watershed moment for cryptocurrency adoption. It builds on the country’s earlier efforts to integrate blockchain technology into the NPS’s operations, with plans announced in April 2025 to use blockchain for transaction transparency and security. The move also aligns with the global rise of crypto-friendly policies, such as U.S. President Donald Trump’s executive order in 2025 to establish a national digital asset stockpile and regulatory framework.
For Bitcoin, this development could further solidify its status as a “blue-chip” asset in the eyes of institutional investors. Combined with Steak ‘n Shake’s recent adoption of Bitcoin Lightning Network payments across its 393 U.S. locations on May 16, the cryptocurrency’s real-world utility and institutional backing are reaching new heights. However, the success of South Korea’s experiment will depend on how the NPS navigates the inherent risks of the crypto market and whether it can deliver the high returns its proponents expect.
Conclusion
South Korea’s historic bill allowing the National Pension Service to invest in Bitcoin marks a pivotal moment in the mainstreaming of digital assets. With bipartisan political support, a tech-savvy population, and a strategic focus on portfolio diversification, the country is positioning itself at the forefront of financial innovation. While challenges remain, the move signals a broader global shift toward recognizing Bitcoin’s long-term potential—not just as a speculative asset, but as a cornerstone of modern investment strategies. As the NPS prepares to enter the Bitcoin market, the world will be watching to see if this bold step pays off for South Korea’s retirees and the cryptocurrency ecosystem at large.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. It is not a direct offer or solicitation of an offer to buy or sell, or a recommendation or endorsement of any products, services, or companies. CoinReporter.io and EUReporter.co does not provide investment, tax, legal, or accounting advice. Neither the company nor the author is responsible, directly or indirectly, for any damage or loss caused or alleged to be caused by or in connection with the use of or reliance on any content, goods or services mentioned in this article.
Bitcoin
BTC Prague 2025: Europe’s Premier Bitcoin-Only Conference Returns to Shape the Future of Finance

From June 19–21, 2025, Prague, Czech Republic, will once again become the epicenter of the Bitcoin revolution as BTC Prague, Europe’s largest and most influential Bitcoin-only conference, returns for its third year. Hosted at the expansive PVA Expo Praha, this three-day event is set to bring together over 10,000 attendees, 220+ speakers, and 90+ companies, all united by a shared passion for Bitcoin’s transformative potential. With a focus on financial sovereignty, technological innovation, and community building, BTC Prague 2025 promises to be a landmark event for Bitcoin enthusiasts, developers, investors, and newcomers alike.
A Bitcoin-Only Beacon in Europe
BTC Prague stands out for its unwavering commitment to a “Bitcoin-only” ethos, ensuring a high signal-to-noise ratio that prioritizes meaningful discussions over hype. As the organizers emphasize, this is not just a conference but a movement to “build bridges and strengthen connections within the European Bitcoin space and beyond.” Held in a city with a rich history of fighting for freedom, Prague is a fitting backdrop for an event that champions Bitcoin’s apolitical, incorruptible, and open nature. The conference aims to deepen understanding, expand networks, and empower attendees to shape the future of Bitcoin.
Star-Studded Lineup of Speakers
BTC Prague 2025 boasts an impressive roster of over 220 speakers, including some of the most prominent voices in the Bitcoin ecosystem. Notable names include:
- Michael Saylor, a leading Bitcoin advocate and the largest corporate hodler through MicroStrategy, who will share insights on Bitcoin as a corporate treasury asset. Saylor’s first-ever European Bitcoin conference appearance in 2023 was a highlight, and his return is highly anticipated.
- Adam Back, CEO of Blockstream, a key figure in Bitcoin’s technical development, who will dive into the protocol’s resilience and innovation.
- Saifedean Ammous, author of The Bitcoin Standard, offering economic perspectives on Bitcoin’s role in a world of inflation and institutional decay.
- Eric Semler, founder of Semler Scientific, who transformed his company’s balance sheet with a Bitcoin-forward strategy, sharing actionable insights for corporate adoption.
- Paolo Ardoino, a cryptography expert and leader in Bitcoin-related tech innovation, discussing advancements in financial freedom.
These speakers, alongside developers, miners, educators, and entrepreneurs, will cover topics ranging from Bitcoin’s open-source foundation to its integration into traditional finance, geopolitical game theory, and corporate strategies. Panels like “Financial Engineering with Bitcoin Standard” and “Bitcoin for Organizations” will provide practical blueprints for individuals and institutions looking to leverage Bitcoin’s potential.
A Comprehensive Program for All
BTC Prague 2025 offers a dynamic program designed to cater to everyone, from curious newcomers to seasoned Bitcoiners. The event features:
- Main Stage and Expo Stage: Hosting keynotes, fireside chats, and panels in English, with top-tier speakers addressing Bitcoin’s technological, economic, and societal impact.
- Czech Stage: An outdoor stage for local audiences, delivering content in Czech to engage the regional Bitcoin community.
- Workshops and Panels: Deep dives into topics like self-custody, mining, and financial sovereignty, with hands-on sessions for practical learning.
- Expo Area: Over 90 Bitcoin-focused companies, including partners like Trezor, Fedi, and ElenPAY, will showcase cutting-edge products and services, from hardware wallets to lightning payment solutions. Attendees can interact directly with innovators and test new technologies.
- Side Events: From Bitcoin & Brews with Rootstock to the Satlantis Sunday Social, side events offer networking opportunities, discussions on privacy and freedom tech, and even a Bitcoin treasure hunt with real BTC prizes.
- VIP and Business Day: On June 19, the exclusive Business Day caters to entrepreneurs and executives, offering high-quality content and quieter expo access. VIP pass holders enjoy front-row sofa seating, a private lounge, premium food and drinks, and exclusive Q&A sessions with speakers. Every VIP attendee will also receive a free Bitkey hardware wallet.
The event’s “Summer Orange Vibe” includes food and chill zones, great Czech beer, two afterparties, and a kids’ corner, ensuring a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere. Kids up to 8 years old get free Expo tickets, making it family-friendly.
Why Prague? A Hub of Bitcoin Innovation
Prague’s selection as the host city is no coincidence. The Czech Republic has a storied history of fostering Bitcoin innovation, giving rise to projects like Trezor and Slush Pool. The conference’s venue, PVA Expo Praha, spans 19,000 m² and includes a conference area, expo hall, VIP lounge, art gallery, gaming zone, and party stage. Located just a 5-minute walk from the Letňany metro station (Line C), the venue is easily accessible, with accommodations near the metro offering convenient access.
The city’s legacy of fighting for freedom, from the Defenestrations of Prague to its modern Bitcoin movement, aligns with BTC Prague’s mission to promote financial sovereignty and individual empowerment. As one attendee noted, “I used to think I was the only Bitcoiner in my town. Thanks to BTC Prague, I gained the biggest value out there—friendships.”
Ticketing and Accessibility
BTC Prague offers a range of ticket options to suit different needs:
- Expo Pass: Ideal for beginners, granting access to the expo area and basic sessions.
- Conference Pass: Suitable for all Bitcoiners, providing access to main stages and workshops.
- Industry Pass: Geared toward professionals seeking to engage with the Bitcoin space.
- VIP Pass: The top-tier option, offering full access, premium hospitality, and exclusive perks like the Business Day and Bitkey wallet.
Tickets start at €15, with a 5% discount for Bitcoin payments via the Lightning Network. The event prioritizes anonymity, requiring no personal data—just a QR code for entry. Tickets can be upgraded, gifted, or sold, with clear instructions provided via email. Early bird tickets are available, but prices increase monthly, so securing a spot early is recommended.
A Community-Driven Experience
What sets BTC Prague apart is its emphasis on community. Organizers Matyas and Martin, backed by their company Twenty One Million s.r.o., curate a welcoming environment that fosters connections and ideas. Attendees have praised the event’s professional execution and its ability to create lasting relationships. One participant shared, “For such a brilliant event like BTC Prague, you just make sacrifices. Deepest thanks to Matyas and his fabulous team for this unforgettable experience.”
The conference also supports side events organized by the community, such as the Dev/Hack/Day for developers and the Hispanic Meetup for Spanish-speaking Bitcoiners, ensuring inclusivity across cultures and expertise levels.
Shaping the Future of Bitcoin
BTC Prague 2025 arrives at a pivotal moment. With Bitcoin’s price climbing and global adoption accelerating, the conference will explore how Bitcoin is reshaping finance, from institutional custody solutions to nation-state strategies. Sessions will address why Bitcoin is moving from a “risk to own” to a “risk not to own” asset and how it empowers individuals in a world of inflation and overreach.
As the organizers state, “We don’t witness the future of Bitcoin here—we are shaping it.” Whether you’re looking to enhance your knowledge, find your next big opportunity, or connect with like-minded enthusiasts, BTC Prague offers the ideal setting to accelerate your Bitcoin journey.
How to Join
Ready to be part of Europe’s biggest Bitcoin event? Visit www.btcprague.com to secure your tickets, explore the full program, and plan your trip. For updates, follow BTC Prague on X (
@BTCPrague), LinkedIn, Telegram, YouTube, Nostr, Instagram, or Facebook. Have questions? Contact the team at [email protected] (mailto:[email protected]).
Don’t miss your chance to join the movement shaping the new global economic order. BTC Prague 2025 is where ideas meet, relationships form, and real Bitcoin stories are made. See you in Prague!
Disclaimer: Information is sourced from the official BTC Prague website and related posts on X. For the latest details, verify with www.btcprague.com.
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