South Korea has the second highest debt-to-disposable income ratio in the world, but Choongsoo Kim, governor of the Bank of Korea, insists that the country’s financial system is not at risk, and suggests that balancing the focus between export and domestic demand will lead to sustainable economic growth.
Asia-Pacific
Latest articles from South Korea
South Korean banks look beyond their borders
September 1, 2011While South Korean manufacturers have achieved global success, the country’s banks have struggled to break out of the domestic market. The government is now looking to introduce new regulations aimed at boosting the international competitiveness of its financial institutions.
Mutual saving bank problems hit South Korea's finance sector
March 23, 2011While South Korea's commercial banks have just enjoyed a record year for earnings, any joy within the country's banking sector has been quelled by problems within its debt-saddled mutual savings banks.
On the rebound
May 5, 2010Despite falling into a major economic trough in the first quarter of 2009, the majority of South Korea's banks are poised for a stable recovery in 2010. But the unwinding of stimulus packages worldwide and the risk of a possible double-dip global recession in the West continue to threaten the Korean banking sector. Writer Mee Hyoe Koo
Will other banks follow Kookmin?
July 7, 2009South Korea's Kookmin bank issued the first covered bond out of an emerging market earlier this year. It was lapped up by investors although its pricing has been questioned. But more importantly, is it the first of many other emerging market banks to look to covered bond investors for funding? Writer Joanne Hart
What went right for South Korea
July 7, 2009In a speech at the IIF Spring Membership Meeting in Beijing in June, South Korean prime minister Han Seung-soo explained how the lessons learned from the Asian crisis of 1997 has helped his country come through the current recession in better shape than most.
Eastern exposure
April 7, 2009South Korea has enjoyed miraculous economic growth for the past four decades, setting it apart from many of its Asian peers. But as an engine of export and an overleveraged economy, it is now highly exposed to the global financial crisis. Writer Michelle Price
HSBC plays waiting game on KEB deal
January 2, 2008The acquisition by international giant HSBC of the Korea Exchange Bank would benefit both parties, but is politically sensitive. Stephen Timewell reports.
Local competition sparks drive for diversification
November 6, 2006Competition among South Korea’s financial institutions is intensifying, and consolidations are still on the cards. Local giants such as Shinhan Bank are looking to neighbouring markets for opportunities. Karina Robinson reports.
What the bankers say: South Korea
January 2, 2006The Banker invites CEOs from around the world to discuss the economic climate in their country and institution, and their hopes for the future
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