Lee Hwan-joo, the newly appointed president of KB Kookmin Bank, emphasized the importance of becoming a “bank that sells trust” during his inauguration ceremony held at the main branch in Yeongdeungpo-gu, Seoul. He stated that the bank should redefine each business sector and find optimal means to create small differences.
At the ceremony held on the 2nd, President Lee expressed his intention to start a “new journey” unique to Kookmin Bank, one that is based on trust to grow together with customers, society, and employees. This marks his appointment as the ninth president of the bank.
He mentioned that on his first day of being appointed as president, he emphasized the word “trust” five times. Having been with KB for over 30 years, he has experienced and strived to practice the idea that nothing is as strong and valuable as companionship based on trust.
Furthermore, he remarked that among the employees of the bank, there is a tradition where predecessors and successors fulfill their roles and plant seeds for the future, described as “not consuming the large fruit.” He added, “If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.”
President Lee stated that the bank should not only sell financial products but also be a “bank that sells trust” to customers and society. He emphasized that customers must feel “Kookmin Bank is certainly different” through strict ethical business practices.
He stressed the importance of building strong trust relationships that resemble a “KB fan club,” guiding the bank’s value and true image, making customers turn to Kookmin Bank first when making important decisions.
President Lee also highlighted the need for business redefinition. He asserted the importance of taking a “refresh” approach, viewing and innovating Kookmin Bank. He urged for the redefinition and redesign of each business’s goals and the means to achieve them from an essential perspective.
He advised that the bank should be able to focus on goals, find the optimal means to achieve them, and execute. The ability to create “small differences” in execution determines success in competition, especially when most competitors have similar strategic directions.
President Lee encouraged all employees to have the mindset of a “whistle-blower,” saying they should be able to speak freely without hesitation. He suggested creating a balanced Kookmin Bank that harmonizes autonomy and discipline while avoiding bias and partiality.
Following his inauguration, President Lee’s first action was to visit the Yeouido branch, where he met with longtime customers, some of whom have been with the bank for over 30 years since their first savings, first salary, or the first accounts for their children and grandchildren. He expressed gratitude and shared New Year’s greetings with them.