[Sponsored Report] IBK puts clients first with omni channel

The Industrial Bank of Korea (IBK) is taking one step closer to running a branchless, Internet-based bank.

IBK ONE Bank, IBK’s smartphone app, differentiates itself from other mobile banking systems by offering a wider range of services via the so-called omni channel. In addition to allowing transfers, the app integrates offline bank branches, internet banking and customer service into one. As a result, the bank can offer clients the ability to set up accounts, opt into other banking services or receive a consultation without having to meet a banker face-to-face.

IBK is also utilizing new technology to better understand client needs. Individual transaction patterns are tracked and analyzed to help form a client-oriented banking environment. The bank refers to this as intelligent banking, which will help develop products tailored to customers’ needs.

IBK is also partnering with companies that have key fintech technologies. The bank has its own mobile wallet system, the IBK ONE Pay, while mobile payment services are provided in affiliation with SK Planet’s Paypin and LG U+’s Paynow. The bank has also paired with smaller mobile transfer systems like TOSS, operated by fintech start-up Viva Republica. If IBK’s client registers their account information with these services, easy access is granted for mobile transfers and payment.

IBK’s efforts to provide convenient banking also include outreach to members in the community who may have been unable to benefit from the latest innovations in fintech, such as the visually impaired. The bank is now working with Dot, a start-up that develops watches with Braille. Through this affiliation, IBK will be able to send clients with impaired vision messages about their account transactions and credit card use.

By investing in mobile banking and fintech technologies, IBK strives to achieve dominance in smart finance.