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Investing and trading in financial markets such as the stock exchange, forex, digital currencies in the form of spot or with leverage face a high inherent risk. According to the statistics of all exchanges and brokers, more than 75% of people lose!
About
Bithumb, a South Korean crypto exchange founded in 2014, offers 4 user verification levels and features security factors, including 5-5-7 regulations, insurance, and ISMS certification. Limited to KRW for fiat transactions, it faces mixed trust ratings and no futures trading.
Bithumb is a South Korean crypto exchange with 8 million registered users. It offers over 170 tradable coins with crypto bot trading support, which allows you to start trading with only $1.
This exchange does not charge a fee for trading in the BTC market, but a maximum 0.25% commission is charged for KRW-market trading.
Bithumb South Korean crypto exchange complete review
Bithumb; Company Information & Regulation
This crypto exchange is a South Korean company established in 2014 by Dae-sik Kim (later became Chief Crypto Officer at Bezant Foundation) and Javier Sim. Its current CEO is Jaewon Lee, with its headquarters located in Seoul, South Korea. This project was created by BTC Korea.com Co. Ltd in 2013.
This exchange, like many other ones in the industry, is not regulated by any authority, but it has taken some measures like 5-5-7 regulation, insurance, network separation, and ISMS certification to level up the security.
Bithumb is one of the country’s longest-operating platforms and offers spot trading, staking, and lending. While derivatives are not available, the platform is widely used by both retail and institutional users.
As of 2019, Bithumb had reportedly processed over $1 trillion in cumulative volume and served more than 8 million registered users.
Bithumb CEO
On May 19th, 2020, Bithumb Korea named Back Young Heo as CEO. A compliance veteran, Heo previously led Bithumb in 2018, focusing on AML and KYC system upgrades.
Joined Bithumb in 2017 as head of compliance
Experience in traditional finance: 14 years in Citibank, CitiCapital, ING Bank, and ING Securities
Strengthening AML policies, fraud detection, and internal controls
Preparing for 2021 financial regulation compliance
Committed to customer asset security and seamless service
Back Young Heo, CEO of Bithumb, graduated from Hongik university
Summary of Specifications
In this section, we will have a glance at the key specifics of this exchange. Table of features:
Exchange
Bithumb
Launch Date
2014
Levels
4
Trading Fees
0.04%-0.25%
Restricted Countries
Iran, Yemen, Syria, North Korea, Iceland, Barbados, Myanmar, Syria
Supported Coins
Over 170 Assets
Futures Trading
No
Minimum Deposit
1 USDT
Deposit Methods
KRW, Cryptocurrencies
Withdrawal Methods
KRW, Cryptocurrencies
Maximum Leverage
1:1
Minimum Trade Amount
From 0
Security Factors
5-5-7 Regulation, Insurance
Services
Investment Programs With Annual Income
Customer Support Ways
Email
Customer Support Hours
24/7
Fiat Deposit
Only Through South Korean Won
Affiliate Program
No
Orders Execution
Not Indicated By The Exchange
Native Token
None
Pros & Cons
Every crypto exchange has its strengths and weaknesses. Here's how Bithumb stacks up:
Pros
Cons
Wide Range Of Cryptocurrencies
Only Supports South Korean Won (KRW) For Fiat Transactions
Excellent Multilingual Customer Support
Some Parts Of The Website Are Only In Korean
High Trading Volume And Liquidity
-
Low Trading Fees
-
Bithumb User Levels
This exchange employs a tiered user verification system that determines withdrawal limits. Here's how it breaks down:
Level
Requirements
Features
Level 1
Email And SMS Verification
Unlimited Crypto Deposits, No Fiat Transactions
Level 2
Passport Submission And I-PIN ID Confirmation
Some Fiat (KRW) Withdrawal Allowed
Level 3
Written Pledge + Level 2 Verification
Higher Withdrawal Limits
Level 4
Proof Of Residency + Level 3 Verification
Highest Withdrawal Limits
Bithumb Commission and Fees
Bithumb has made waves with its competitive fee structure. It offers some of the lowest numbers in the industry. Fees Overview:
Market Type
Commission
KRW Market
0.04% to 0.25%
BTC Market
None
Bithumb applies a variable maker-taker fee structure, ranging between 0.04% and 0.25% for the KRW market. Users can access discounted rates by purchasing tiered coupons based on trading activity. Bithumb commission tiers:
Bithumb Fee Coupon
Commission
Beginner
0.25%
Retail Trader
0..08% - 0.20%
Day Trader
0.05% - 0.065%
High-Frequency Trader
0.04% - 0.045%
Deposits incur no fee except those below the minimum amount for certain cryptocurrencies (e.g., 0.005 BTC). Withdrawal commissions depend on the asset used and the blockchain network.
What Coins Does Bithumb Support?
Bithumb supports both crypto-to-crypto and crypto-to-fiat spot trading, primarily via two markets: KRW-based and BTC-based.
Coins and assets listed on Bithumb trading platform
Bithumb isn't shy about offering a wide range of cryptocurrencies. It provides access to more than 170 digital assets, including but not limited to:
In addition to manual trading, users can utilize AI-driven Auto Trading or algorithmic BotTrading tools.
Bithumb Futures and Margin Trading: Complete overview
Unfortunately, this exchange does not offer any futures markets or margin trading. If you are really looking to trade futures, you need to look elsewhere.
How to Sign Up and Verify Your Account on Bithumb
Creating an account on this exchange is simple and mobile-verified, designed with layered verification tiers (Levels 1–4) to suit different trading needs. Each step ensures both security and regulatory alignment, especially for identity verification.
#1 Visit the Official Website
Navigate to the exchange’s homepage and click on “Sign Up” to begin registration.
#2 Mobile Number Verification
Enter your mobile phone number, which must be registered under your legal name. This number will be used to verify your identity via SMS.
Mobile phone number verification on Bithumb exchange for registration
#3 Provide Email and Location
Add avalid email address and specify your country or region of residence.
#4 Create a Secure Password
Set a strong, unique password for account protection. After completing these steps, you can access different user verification levels (1–4) to unlock deposit, withdrawal, and trading features.
Each level requires specific documentation, which is covered in the platform’s verification section.
How to Trade on Bithumb?
Bithumb Exchange makes cryptocurrency spot trading simple and flexible by offering multiple order types. Whether you want full control over your entry price, instant execution, or automated risk management, Bithumb’s spot trading tools cover it all.
#1 Access the Spot Trading Section
Log in to your Bithumb account, go to the Spot Trading area, and choose the cryptocurrency pair you want to trade (e.g., BTC/KRW, ETH/USDT).
Click Exchange to reach the spot trading tab
#2 Asset Selection
Choose your desired digital asset trading pair via the search bar in the spot trading tab.
#3 Choose Your Order Type
Bithumb supports three main order types for spot trading:
Limit Order: Lets you set your own buy or sell price. The trade executes only when the market reaches your chosen level—perfect for traders who want precise control;
Market Order: Executes immediately at the best available market price. This option is ideal for traders who prioritize speed and guaranteed execution;
Stop Price Order: Activates a market order once your preset "stop" level is hit. Useful for stop-loss protection or entering trades automatically when price movements trigger your strategy.
Bithumb spot trading platform; order types and digital assets
#4 Confirm and Manage Your Orders
After placing an order, check your Open Orders or Order History.
Limit orders may remain pending until the price is matched;
Market orders fill instantly;
Stop orders stay active until the trigger price is reached.
What Platforms and Applications Does Bithumb Offer?
This exchange offers a proprietary platform for traders. This platform is accessible through the web, iOS, and Android, and clients should go through one of these ways in order to start trading. Here are the download links for mobile applications:
Investor Engagement: Strong volatility reflects active trading
Bithumb trading volume from May to August 2025, according to CoinGecko
Bithumb Services
Bithumb, one of South Korea’s leading cryptocurrency exchanges, offers TradingView integration, API access, automated trading bots, OTC services, and a referral program.
Focused on efficiency and accessibility, the platform provides essential tools for both retail and institutional crypto investors.
Security is paramount in the crypto world, and Bithumb has taken significant steps to protect its users. The exchange's security features:
Bithumb adheres to the "5-5-7 Regulation": 5% of personnel are IT specialists, 5% of IT personnel are data security specialists, and 7% of the budget is dedicated to data protection;
The exchange has implemented comprehensive security solutions used by commercial banks;
Bithumb has purchased cyber insurance coverage of up to 6 billion KRW;
The company maintains network separation and intrusion prevention systems monitored 24/7;
Bithumb has obtained ISMS certification and plans to acquire additional global security certifications like PIMS and ISO27001.
However, it's not all smooth sailing. Bithumb experienced a major hack in 2017, losing about $31 million worth of cryptocurrencies.
Bithumb Security Rankings
The Bithumb CertiK Skynet profile holds an 83.35 security score (Grade A), ranking #19 among exchanges. Strong operational resilience (86.73) and listing security (89.04) highlight its stability, although the absence of penetration tests signals room for cybersecurity reinforcement.
Bithumb security rankings on the CertiK Skynet website
On CER.live, Bithumb records a DDD rating with a 33% security score, ranking #113. While server security (86/100) and user security (70/100) are relatively strong, the lack of penetration tests, bug bounty, and funds insurance reduces overall trustworthiness.
Category
Metric
Value
CertiK Skynet Score
Overall Score
86.33% (A)
Operational
89.96
Market
87.01
Cybersecurity
95.32
Fundamental
79.90
Listing Security
89.02
Community
81.06
CER.live Security Score
Overall Score
65% (B)
Server Security
100/100
User Security
100/100
Penetration Tests
100/100
Bug Bounty
50/100
ISO 27001
No
CCSS
No
Funds Insurance
No
What Options Do You Have for Payments?
When it comes to funding your Bithumb account, options are somewhat limited. Payment Methods:
Deposits and withdrawals in Korean won (KRW) for South Korean residents
Deposits and withdrawals using crypto wallets only for international users
No support for other fiat currencies or payment methods
This limitation might be a significant drawback forinternational users looking for more diverse payment options. It's clear that the exchange's primary focus remains on the South Korean market.
Trust Scores Overview
When it comes to finance and funds, trust acts as a very important asset. Bithumb's reputation hastaken some hits, especially onTrustpilot, and the overall scores are lower than average. Trust Reviews:
Bithumb review scores are very low on Trustpilot website
However, there aren't many users and reviewers who have evaluated this exchange; therefore, we can't be sure of the reliability of these scores.
Bithumb Features
Bithumb offers various crypto-special services like lending and staking. However, it doesn't support social trading.
Staking
Yes
Yield Farming
No
Social Trading
No
Liquidity Pool
Yes
Crypto Cards
No
Bithumb Promotions
Bithumb offers a wide range of promotional campaigns, from daily trading rewards to referral bonuses and high-stakes trading competitions. These programs are designed to reward both new and existing members with gift vouchers, cash prizes, and exclusive benefits.
Promotion
Reward Amount / Prize Pool
Eligibility Criteria
Special Notes
Daily Trading Voucher
Up to ₩50,000 per trade
Daily traders (auto-entry)
Giftable to friends; expires if unused
Friend Invitation
₩30,000 (inviter) / ₩50,000 (friend)
First-time sign-ups with account linking
Rewards capped by account conditions
Trading King Contest
₩750M – ₩9B prize pools
All verified traders during event
Multiple seasons, leaderboard-based
Bithumb Daily Trading Voucher
Bithumb provides automatic cashback rewards through gift vouchers for active traders. Every trade counts as an entry, and winners are notified via app alerts. Vouchers can be used personally or gifted to friends.
Up to ₩50,000 voucher available;
First-time registrants may qualify for higher rewards;
Must be registered within 30 days of winning.
Bithumb Friend Invitation Program
Invite friends to join Bithumb and unlock shared rewards. Both inviter and invitee benefit once the new member registers with a referral code and links a KRW account.
Inviter: ₩30,000 reward
Friend: ₩50,000 reward
Only available for first-time sign-ups
Rewards may have temporary withdrawal limits
Bithumb Trading King Contest
The flagship “Trading King” competition offers massive seasonal prize pools for top traders. Participants are ranked based on trading volume during the contest period, with prizes reaching billions of KRW.
Recent event: ₩750M prize pool (Aug 18 – Aug 31, 2025)
Past events ranged up to ₩9B total prizes
Open to all verified Bithumb traders
Leaderboard determines winners
Customer Services in Bithumb: Schedule & Methods
Bithumb ensures strong customer support with multiple contact channels tailored to traders’ needs. Available 24/7/365, its support network combines online and offline solutions, including email, phone, chatbot, and dedicated investor protection services.
Investor Protection Center: 343, Gangnam-daero, Seocho-gu, Seoul, Republic of Korea (9:00 AM – 6:00 PM and closed Sat, Sun, and holidays)
Bithumb profile on the Kakao social platform
Bithumb Copy Trading and Investment Options: Does It Offer Any Services?
This exchange does not provide any copy trading services. However, it offers investment programs with an average annual income of 7% up to a maximum of 20% on deposits. To start, the user needs to choose an available option, then freeze the required amount of the asset desired.
Bithumb supports passive income through lending and crypto staking. Users can lend assets like Bitcoin and Ethereum for 3 to 7 days at competitive returns starting at 1%.
Staking is also available, including Ethereum 2.0 staking through BETH, offering annual returns based on the duration and amount staked.
Which Countries are Restricted from Bithumb's Services?
This exchange does not offer services to the countries that failed to comply with the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) standards. These countries include:
Yemen
Iran
North Korea
Iceland
Barbados
Myanmar
Syria
The list includes 21 countries in total.
Bithumb's list of banned countries and regions
Bithumb vs Other Exchanges
The table below compares Bithumb's specifics with other top players in the market.
Bithumb exchange has more than $300,000,000 in daily trading volume and over 8 million registered accounts. The platform has received a 7/10 evaluation score on CoinGecko and a 1.4/5 rating on Trustpilot.
The company was founded by Dae-sik Kim and Javier Sim, but currently, it's led by CEO Back Young Heo.
FAQs
What is Bithumb and where is it based?
Bithumb is a South Korean cryptocurrency exchange founded in 2014, with its headquarters in Seoul. It offers spot trading, staking, and investment products to over 8 million users.
Are there staking or passive income options?
Yes, Bithumb offers staking and lending programs, including Ethereum 2.0 staking via BETH, and short-term lending with daily interest.
Does Bithumb offer margin trading?
No, this exchange does not offer any features regarding margin trading.
Can I use Bithumb outside South Korea?
Yes, but with limited features. International users can only deposit and withdraw cryptocurrencies, not fiat.
Is Bithumb a regulated exchange?
No, Bithumb is not formally regulated by a financial authority, but implements strong internal policies like 5-5-7 regulation, ISMS certification, and insurance coverage up to KRW 6 billion.
How many cryptocurrencies can I trade?
Bithumb supports over 170 digital assets, including BTC, ETH, ADA, XRP, and MATIC, available across KRW and BTC markets.
What are trading fees?
BTC market trading is fee-free, while KRW market fees range from 0.04% to 0.25%. Lower rates are available through fee coupons based on trading volume.
Is futures or margin trading supported?
No, Bithumb only supports spot trading with 1:1 leverage. It does not offer futures, options, or margin trading.
What fiat currencies are supported?
Bithumb only supports South Korean Won (KRW) for fiat transactions. Non-Korean users can deposit and withdraw crypto only.
What is the minimum deposit required?
The minimum crypto deposit is 1 USDT, while KRW deposits have no official minimum. Some coins may require a threshold to avoid being forfeited.
How does the verification system work?
Bithumb uses a 4-level KYC system. Levels increase withdrawal limits and require escalating proofs: email, ID, proof of address, and residency documents.
Does Bithumb offer a mobile app?
Yes, Bithumb offers a proprietary mobile app for iOS and Android, enabling full access to trading and staking tools on the go.
What security measures are in place?
Bithumb employs network separation, 24/7 intrusion monitoring, cyber insurance, and ISMS certification. Despite a past hack, security protocols are now among the strictest in Korea.
Is copy trading available?
No, Bithumb does not support copy trading or social trading. For these features, users should consider exchanges like Bybit or OKX.
What are the staking returns on Bithumb?
Bithumb offers annual staking returns from 1% to 20%, depending on the asset and duration. Ethereum, DOT, MATIC, and BETH are commonly used in staking.
How is Bithumb rated by users?
Bithumb has a low rating of 1.4/5 on TrustPilot and REVIEWS.io, mainly due to customer support and past security issues.
Which countries are restricted?
Bithumb restricts access from 21 jurisdictions, including Iran, North Korea, Myanmar, Yemen, Iceland, and Barbados, due to FATF regulations.