Hana Bank will make a special contribution of 5.5 billion won to the Incheon Credit Guarantee Foundation to support 84 billion won in guaranteed loans for small merchants.

Hana Bank said on July 26 it signed an agreement with the Incheon Credit Guarantee Foundation on a special contribution for inclusive finance and visited Sinpo International Market in Incheon and the Namdong National Industrial Complex.

The agreement was designed to expand financial support for small merchants and companies in Incheon ahead of Hana Financial Group's planned relocation of its headquarters to Cheongna.

Hana Bank will make a total special contribution of 5.5 billion won to the Incheon Credit Guarantee Foundation this year to support 84 billion won in guaranteed loans tailored for small merchants.

After contributing 3.5 billion won in the first half, it plans to add 2.0 billion won in the second half to provide 30 billion won in guarantees.

It will also provide preferential financial benefits to merchants affiliated with Incheon's local currency, Incheon e-Eum, and the public delivery app Meokggaebi. It also plans to provide an additional 10 billion won in emergency operating funds for small merchants in Incheon through an overdraft facility.

Chief executive Ho-seong Lee (이호성) visited Sinpo International Market, delivered a development fund to the merchants association and held a meeting with merchants. He heard their difficulties and discussed ways to provide financial support.

Lee also visited the Namdong National Industrial Complex in Incheon and held a meeting with local businesspeople.

Hana Bank has launched 300 billion won worth of "Incheon Hana The Specialized Industry Loans" for companies based in Incheon to support their fundraising.

Lee said, "As Hana Financial Group is relocating its headquarters to Cheongna in September, coexistence with small merchants in traditional markets and companies in industrial complexes is a natural duty for a financial institution." He said, "We will grow together with the Incheon region through financial support that reflects the voices of local commercial districts and companies."