ANN/THE KOREA HERALD – South Korean banks are enhancing their offerings to cater to the growing foreign customer base.
Shinhan Bank, for instance, has introduced a pioneering service among local commercial banks. This service enables foreign residents in Korea to conveniently apply for new check cards online through its mobile app, SOL Bank.
With its newly implemented foreign identification verification system, foreigners aged 17 or older with valid domestic identification documents, like an alien registration card or domestic residence registration card, can access the service.
Shinhan is not alone in its efforts to cater to foreign residents, whose numbers are rebounding following declines during the COVID-19 pandemic.
In May, Hana Bank launched its first “Culture Bank” in Cheonan, South Chungcheong Province, to meet the needs of the city’s fast-expanding foreign community. Located next to the bank’s Cheonan Station branch, the centreprovides essential services, such as a free medical clinic, multilingual libraries and various support programs.
Meanwhile, Hana Bank’s Cheonan Station branch is part of its network of 16 foreigner-specialised branches. It ensures language proficiency among staff for effective communication and offers Sunday operations to accommodate foreign labourers.
Hana Bank has led digital banking services for foreigners as well. It was the first to launch a global banking app, Hana EZ, for foreign customers in 2019 and went on to pioneer mobile account opening in 2021. In March, it introduced a digital financial certificate in 16 languages on its global banking app, enhancing the digital banking experience for foreigners.
In November, Woori Bank revamped its Woori Won Global mobile banking app, adding services in 17 languages and introducing enhanced international remittance features and support services.
