Bitcoin, XRP Briefly Wick Down 30% on South Korean Exchanges as Martial Law Declared
Negative sentiment spilled over to the crypto markets in the minutes following. Bitcoin, XRP — two of the most traded tokens by volumes on local exchanges — plunged as low as 30%
Major crypto tokens quickly plunged as much as 30% against the Korean won on South Korean exchanges as the government declared emergency martial law late on Tuesday.
South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol declared "emergency martial law," accusing opposition parties of undermining the government, sympathizing with North Korea, and paralyzing the nation’s legislative process.
Negative sentiment spilled over to the crypto markets in the minutes following. Bitcoin, XRP — two of the most traded tokens by volumes on local exchanges — plunged as low as 30% on Upbit before quickly recovering. BTC fell from $96,000 to $63,000 in U.S. dollar terms, assuming current exchange rates.
In crypto circles, South Korean traders are known for pushing euphoric rallies on tokens, contributing to buying pressure and possibly influencing prices.