Despite 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
Asia-Pacific
Latest articles from South Korea

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
Banks keen to transform their revenue structure
July 2, 2004South Korea’s banks have been suffering wide profit swings. Park Sang-soo reports from Seoul on their efforts to find alternative sources of income to beef up their profitability.
Fresh investors wanted
July 2, 2004In a bid to boost South Korea’s sluggish economy, the government has revised asset management laws to encourage the growth of private equity funds. But the move has its opponents, as Kim Ji-hyun reports.