Bank of Korea CBDC pilot skipped independent security audit, report says

According to a report in the Maeil Business newspaper, South Korea’s financial regulators didn’t conduct specific security checks during the initial testing phase of the Bank of Korea’s digital currency pilot program, which took place between April and June of last year. The information comes from data provided by the Financial Supervisory Service to lawmaker Lee Heon-seung.

Russia’s Duma Finally Notices Crypto: Too Little, Too Late?

Russia is preparing to take another step toward regulating crypto activities. The second and third readings of a bill on the regulation of cryptocurrencies will be held on July 21 in the State Duma. The proposal, if approved, will establish a legal framework for the use of cryptocurrencies and enhance the regulatory environment nationwide-or at least give bureaucrats something to do besides counting their dachas.

HashKey, Kbank, and BPMG Join Forces for KRW Stablecoin Payments

This partnership is part of HashKey’s plan to expand across Asia and will focus on using stablecoins pegged to the Korean won to make international payments and settle trades. HashKey, Kbank, and BPMG will work together, combining HashKey’s digital asset technology, Kbank’s banking services, and BPMG’s technical expertise to develop and test innovative financial systems.