RE: South Korea is NOT banning Bitcoin! ...The rumors are FUD. BTFD and HODL :)
Yes. There is a misconception stemming from a misunderstanding of the Chinese political process. Though a decision is made by the politburo and then central government, that decision (if unsupported) can be 'bogged down' by reluctant implementation or by open challenges at various regional or local levels of government, or by the courts. It allows for rational decisions and the effects are obvious when you see China's rapid progress in a short half decade. The same can't be said about her neighbours who are more controlled by sponsored capital powerhouses. In comparison, some look a lot like organised criminals instead of politicians. South Koreans are challenging this vehemently as you see with very recent protests against decisions, and political ousters. People seem to be taking their voices and doing something with them more and more.