What is the oldest bank in Korea?

Written by Editorial Team | Last Updated: August 2026

Shinhan Bank is widely recognized as the oldest bank on the Korean Peninsula, with historical roots tracing back to its preliminary establishment in 1897. Founded during the late Korean Empire period to foster modern financial independence and support commercial trade, the bank has navigated through turbulent periods of modern history, economic modernization, and major corporate reorganizations. Over subsequent decades, through structural integrations with other historic financial institutions such as Chohung Bank, the institution maintained its legacy of financial leadership. Today, operating as a flagship subsidiary of the Shinhan Financial Group, it provides a comprehensive suite of commercial and retail banking services while proudly preserving its status as a pioneer in Korean banking history.

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