South Korean regulators requested 14 apps from Apple – which did not belong – reported foreign crypto operators – were blocked domestic, a statement said Monday.

Crypto exchanges Kucoin and Mexc are among the companies targeted by the regulator and domestic access to their apps has been blocked since April 11. Coindesk reached Kucoin and Mexc for a comment.

Foreign virtual asset business operators wishing to operate in South Korea must report to the Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU) in accordance with the Reporting and Use Act, the Transaction Information Act, the statement states.

“Unrested business activities are subject to criminal penalties, and FIU has been targeted at overseas non -reported virtual asset business operators performing domestic business activities without reporting (16 companies in 2022, 6 companies in 2023), while also blocking domestic access via internet sites and mobile phone apps,” said the regulator.

South Korea has moved to block crypto providers operating illegally. Last month, it requested Google prevented access to 17 apps, while reports came out of the controller planning to block some exchange sites.

“In the future, FIU will continue to block domestic access through mobile applications (apps) and Internet sites with overseas non -reported virtual asset operators to prevent money laundering of money laundering and user injuries in consultation with relevant organizations,” the financial intelligence unit said.