South Korean Banks Expand FX Trading Teams Ahead of Near 24-Hour Won Trading

Major South Korean banks are expanding their foreign-exchange trading teams and strengthening operations in Seoul and London ahead of the launch of a near 24-hour won FX market. According to Jin10, the staffing and system upgrades are intended to support extended trading hours and improve market liquidity. Woori Bank has assigned eight additional employees to its London office, covering roles in foreign exchange, derivatives, and bond trading. Hana Bank has added traders in Seoul and introduced a three-shift rotation to provide round-the-clock coverage. Shinhan Bank and KB Kookmin Bank have also increased staffing and upgraded systems as part of the same preparation. The changes are linked to the introduction of a near 24-hour won foreign-exchange trading framework starting July 6, aimed at boosting liquidity and supporting the internationalization of South Korea’s financial markets.