Korea's first female crypto exchange CEO, now shaping digital asset policy across Asia.
Founder of the International Digital Asset Policy Institute (IDAPI). Bridging global regulatory standards with Korea's evolving digital asset landscape through a decade of frontline industry and policy experience.
About
In 2015, Sung A (Sophie) Kim entered the cryptocurrency industry — years before most institutions even acknowledged its existence. She co-founded Hanbitco, becoming Korea's first female cryptocurrency exchange CEO, and built it into a fully regulated, VASP-licensed platform with ISO/IEC 27001 certification.
Recognizing that sustainable growth demanded clear rules, she turned to policy. She co-founded the Korea Blockchain Association and was elected by member exchanges as the inaugural Chair of its Exchange Committee — a role she held for three years. During this tenure, she played a central role in shaping Korea's landmark Special Financial Information Act, facilitating critical dialogue between industry leaders and government regulators.
Today, as founder of the International Digital Asset Policy Institute (IDAPI), she works at the nexus of global regulatory standards and Korea's domestic policy framework — conducting cross-border research, advising on institutional strategy, and ensuring Korea's digital asset ecosystem develops in alignment with international best practices.
"I believe the future of digital assets depends not just on innovation, but on the quality of the rules we build around it. My mission is to ensure those rules are informed, fair, and globally coherent."
Experience
Ventures
The International Digital Asset Policy Institute — a research and advisory body bridging global regulatory standards with Korea's digital asset framework. Produces policy analysis, hosts cross-border dialogue, and advises institutions navigating crypto regulation.
Korea's premier Bitcoin conference — a gathering of global industry leaders, policymakers, and builders discussing Bitcoin's role in the future of money, from institutional adoption and policy to RWA and macroeconomic strategy.
A regulated Korean crypto exchange built to institutional standards. VASP-licensed, ISO/IEC 27001-certified, and a founding member of the Korea Blockchain Association. Operated for five years through multiple market cycles.
A non-profit initiative applying blockchain technology to the United Nations' 17 Sustainable Development Goals. Presented at UN working meetings and convened technologists, NGOs, and policymakers around blockchain's potential for global impact.
Speaking & Advisory
Invited to share insights on digital asset regulation, exchange governance, and blockchain policy at leading international forums.
Co-founded Korea's flagship Bitcoin conference, hackathon & Bitcoin Olympics
Presented on blockchain applications for UN Sustainable Development Goals
International jury member, Barcelona, Spain
Blockchain survival TV show judge, Asian Economic TV (2018)
Industry judge for Korea's blockchain data innovation competition
Co-initiated global women blockchain leaders program with UN Futures Forum
Mentor & angel investor backing Bitcoin-native startups
In the Media
In-depth interview on Hanbitco's strategy to mirror Coinbase's institutional-grade approach in the Korean market.
Feature on Hanbitco's role in driving Korea's Special Financial Information Act as a top-tier compliance-focused exchange.
CEO interview on Hanbitco's pivot to a consumer-friendly exchange with UX innovation and cross-industry partnerships.
Coverage of leadership transition and the exchange's strategic commitment to regulatory compliance.
Education
Contact
Open to speaking invitations, advisory engagements, policy research collaborations, and conversations about the future of digital assets.