Following a high-profile operational error at the Bithumb exchange, South Korean regulators have mandated five-minute asset verifications for cryptocurrency platforms. The Financial Services Commission (FSC) now requires real-time balance checks, replacing previous daily audits, as part of broader efforts to institutionalize digital asset markets.

The new rules introduce automated alert systems and immediate trading halts during any discrepancies. Exchanges must implement these controls by May, with monthly audits and public disclosure of reconciliation results becoming mandatory. This regulatory shift comes after Bithumb's payout mishap exposed critical gaps in exchange risk management systems.

Market observers note the measures mirror traditional financial oversight, suggesting South Korea aims to professionalize its crypto sector. Exchanges face significant technical upgrades to meet the requirements, particularly around transaction monitoring and error detection protocols.