Bithumb to Halt USDT Withdrawals on Kaia Network Next Week

South Korea’s leading cryptocurrency exchange, Bithumb, has announced a temporary suspension of Tether (USDT) withdrawals on the Kaia network. The halt is scheduled to take effect at 1:45 a.m. UTC on May 28, 2025, according to an official notice from the platform.

Withdrawal Suspension Details

The suspension applies exclusively to USDT transactions processed through the Kaia network. Bithumb has stated that the measure is temporary, though no specific end date has been provided. Users attempting to withdraw USDT via Kaia after the cutoff time will likely encounter failed transactions or delays.

Bithumb has advised customers to use alternative networks for USDT withdrawals during the suspension period. Commonly supported options include Ethereum (ERC-20), Tron (TRC-20), and BNB Smart Chain (BEP-20), depending on the user’s wallet compatibility.

Why This Matters for Traders

Kaia is a relatively newer blockchain network designed for high-speed, low-cost transactions. Its integration on Bithumb had offered users an additional withdrawal route with reduced fees. The suspension may temporarily increase congestion on other networks as users shift their activity.

For active traders and arbitrageurs who rely on Kaia for fast settlement, this change could disrupt existing workflows. Users holding USDT on Bithumb and intending to move funds via Kaia should initiate withdrawals before the deadline or select an alternative network.

Market and Regulatory Context

Bithumb has not disclosed the specific reason for the suspension. Such actions are often related to network upgrades, wallet maintenance, or security reviews. In South Korea, cryptocurrency exchanges operate under strict regulatory oversight from the Financial Services Commission (FSC), which mandates robust anti-money laundering (AML) and user protection protocols.

The announcement follows a broader trend of exchanges periodically reviewing network support to ensure compliance and security. Similar temporary suspensions have occurred on other platforms for networks like Polygon and Solana in recent months.

What Users Should Do

• Complete any pending USDT withdrawals on the Kaia network before 1:45 a.m. UTC on May 28.
• Check Bithumb’s official announcements for updates on the resumption of Kaia withdrawals.
• Use alternative networks such as ERC-20 or TRC-20 for USDT transfers during the suspension.
• Verify wallet addresses support the chosen network to avoid loss of funds.

Conclusion

Bithumb’s temporary suspension of USDT withdrawals on the Kaia network is a routine operational measure, but it carries practical implications for users who depend on that specific network for low-cost transfers. While the exchange has not detailed the cause, the move aligns with standard security and maintenance practices. Users are encouraged to act before the deadline and monitor official channels for reinstatement notices.

FAQs

Q1: When does the USDT withdrawal suspension on Kaia start?
The suspension begins at 1:45 a.m. UTC on May 28, 2025.

Q2: Can I still withdraw USDT on other networks from Bithumb?
Yes, Bithumb supports USDT withdrawals on other networks such as Ethereum (ERC-20), Tron (TRC-20), and BNB Smart Chain (BEP-20), which remain unaffected.

Q3: Why is Bithumb suspending Kaia network withdrawals?
Bithumb has not provided a specific reason, but such suspensions are typically related to network maintenance, security upgrades, or compliance reviews.