Hyundai Group evacuated two Seoul offices after a bomb threat demanding 13 Bitcoin was received via email. The incident highlights the growing use of cryptocurrency in extortion attempts and raises regulatory concerns.

What Happened

On December 18, 2025, employees at Hyundai Group’s Seoul headquarters received an email threatening to detonate a bomb unless 13 Bitcoin were paid. The company promptly evacuated staff from two offices and notified local authorities, who investigated the threat. No bomb was found, and the threat was deemed credible.

Why It Matters for Bitcoin

This case illustrates how criminals are turning to Bitcoin as a ransom medium. Because Bitcoin is pseudonymous and cross‑border, it offers a convenient channel for extortionists. The incident also signals that law‑enforcement agencies and regulators are paying closer attention to crypto‑based threats.

Market Impact

Following the news, Bitcoin’s price dipped modestly by about 2% within the next 24 hours, reflecting heightened risk sentiment amid extreme fear conditions in the market.

What to Watch Next

  • Regulatory responses in South Korea and globally to crypto‑related extortion.
  • Any legal action taken against the threat sender.
  • Potential changes in corporate security protocols for handling crypto demands.
  • Impact on other companies that accept Bitcoin as a payment method.

Start Here

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Source

Bitcoin Magazine – Hyundai Bomb Threat in South Korea

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