On June 1, representatives from KB Kookmin Bank, Shinhan Bank, IBK Industrial Bank, and five regional banks, including iM Bank, Busan Bank, Gyeongnam Bank, Gwangju Bank, and Jeonbuk Bank, held a closed meeting at a hotel in Yeouido, Seoul.
The meeting aimed to identify areas for joint action on digital assets and discuss various regulations.
Participants reportedly collaborated on exploring the evolving role of banks within the rapidly changing digital ecosystem. They also discussed regulatory frameworks, including the second phase of digital asset legislation.
Hana Bank did not participate in the meeting, leading to speculation in the financial sector that Hana Financial's recent investment in Dunamu prompted other banks to form alliances.
Hana Bank recently announced it acquired 228,400 shares of Dunamu, representing a 6.55% stake, for approximately 1 trillion won. This acquisition positions Hana Bank as the fourth-largest shareholder in Dunamu. If Dunamu engages in a share exchange with Naver Financial, it could lead to the formation of a significant alliance.
However, participating banks clarified that they are not yet discussing specific business partnerships or consortium formations.
A financial industry official stated, "This was simply a meeting to analyze the market, and discussions about alliances will need to be observed further."
* This article has been translated by AI.
Copyright ⓒ Aju Press All rights reserved.