Credit Union Research Institute Engages in Policy Exchange with Japanese Credit Unions

The National Credit Union Federation of Korea's Credit Union Research Institute and the 'Credit Union Research' 3040 Advisory Group visited the Japan National Credit Union Federation (SBAJ), Taitokyo Credit Union, and Daiichi Kangyo Credit Union from July 17 to 19. The purpose of the visit was to engage in substantive discussions for the exchange of cooperative financial policies and research collaboration between the two countries.

This visit was organized to investigate the response strategies and successful cases of Japanese credit unions, which have faced social structural changes such as low birth rates and an aging population earlier than Korea. The goal was to explore sustainable development strategies for cooperative-based finance.

The delegation consisted of Shin Choonghyou, Director of the Credit Union Research Institute; Hyun Junghwan, Professor at Dongguk University; Na Hyungjong, Professor at Semyung University; Kim Yonggi, Professor; and Kim Seongtae, Professor at Kyungsung University, all members of the 'Credit Union Research' 3040 Advisory Group.

Yoshizawa Mamoru, Executive Director of the Japan National Credit Union Federation, is sharing policy opinions. National Credit Union Federation

In particular, this field study focused on understanding the current status of various non-financial sector businesses operated by Japanese credit unions and analyzing the policy implications identified during the process.

During the visit, the Credit Union Research Institute and the advisory group met with Yoshizawa Mamoru, Executive Director of the Japan National Credit Union Federation, to exchange policy opinions on topics such as financial support for small and medium-sized enterprises and digital transformation. At this meeting, they also shared the success factors of the Korean credit union, which has grown as a private sector-led cooperative model.

In the future, the delegation plans to publish a research report and hold an international case presentation based on interviews, data exchanges, and on-site briefings conducted during visits to the Japan National Credit Union Federation, Taitokyo Credit Union, and Daiichi Kangyo Credit Union.

Shin Choonghyou, Director of the National Credit Union Federation of Korea, stated, "Japanese credit unions have presented a successful model of community-based finance amid economic stagnation and the aging of local communities. Taking this visit as an opportunity, we plan to expand our cooperation network with credit union research institutions around the world, including Japan. Through international comparative studies, we aim to strengthen the competitiveness of Korean credit unions and increase their contribution to local communities."