@shanesnh What I get from your post is whether these discounts ( discounted exchange rate -- South Korean Won to US$ ) for monies amount to recognizable income for US tax purposes. In such cases the tests I would apply are
(a) is this something of value that I have full / unfettered right to transfer ( i.e. sell/exchange/barter) in the open market ( i.e. arms length exchange) ? If it is not then it is not a recognizable income.
(b) If it is a recognizable income is it above the minimal / safe harbor amount generally recognized ?
In your particular situation, your operating currency ( for US tax purposes ) being US$, an exchange rate discount based on specific conditions ( opening a new account, specific currencies, relationship etc. etc. ) are not transferrable ( it applies only to a long-term customer and/or holder of a specific coupon -- an advertisement ) and so therefore is not an income per-se -- it is a benefit of being a special customer ( relationship). This is no different than getting special pricing in a membership only store like Costco/ Sam's Club etc.
(c) This is personal expense -- exchanging Won to US$
Please note that since you have foreign bank/ financial account, FBAR and FATCA regulations apply
Does this make sense ? Is there more I can do for you ?
