Bitcoin’s Rally Is Heavily Driven by US Buyers — Is There a Market Risk?

Bitcoin price reached consecutive all-time highs in July, but two key indicators suggest the rally is heavily US-driven. 

A growing divergence between US and Korean trading activity is raising questions about global participation — and market risk. 

Coinbase Premium Surges Alongside US Bitcoin ETF Inflows

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The Coinbase Premium Index, which tracks the price difference between Bitcoin on Coinbase (USD) and Binance (USDT), has surged throughout July.

This premium has climbed as high as 0.08%, signaling strong US buying pressure.

Coinbase serves US institutional and retail investors. A rising premium often reflects aggressive accumulation by American whales, ETF providers, or corporations.

This aligns with recent inflows of over $14.8 billion into US spot Bitcoin ETFs, pushing BTC to an all-time high near $123,000.

These movements confirm that US institutions are leading the current cycle, supported by favorable regulation and capital access.

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Korean Bitcoin Market Tells a Different Story

In sharp contrast, the Korea Premium Index — often called the “Kimchi Premium” — has dropped below zero.

This index tracks the price difference between Bitcoin on Korean exchanges (e.g., Upbit, Bithumb) and global platforms.

As of mid-July, the premium remains around -1.7%, showing Bitcoin trades cheaper in South Korea. A negative Korea Premium suggests Korean retail demand is weak, with few new investors entering the market.

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In previous bull runs (2017, 2021), Korea often saw premiums of +10% or more, driven by speculative retail frenzy. That dynamic is absent today.

Why This Divergence Matters

The split in premium indices reveals Bitcoin’s current bull run is not globally balanced. It is centered in the US, with limited retail enthusiasm from one of Asia’s most active markets.

Historically, broad-based retail participation has sustained and extended bull markets. Without it, there’s a risk the rally becomes too top-heavy, reliant on institutional flows alone.

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This may also affect altcoin momentum, which often relies on Korean exchange liquidity and retail-driven narratives.

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Overall, the Coinbase Premium should stay positive if US demand remains strong. But if it dips while Korea stays negative, it may signal waning momentum.

A flip in the Korea Premium to positive would suggest a retail re-entry, and could fuel the next leg of Bitcoin’s rise.

Until then, Bitcoin’s price action will likely remain US-centric, led by ETFs, corporates, and wealth managers — not global retail investors.