"From AI Treasurer to Next-Gen Face Prediction: Banks Compete in AI Innovation"

From Financial Services to Unique Features
Banks Prepare for Future AI Competitiveness
Continuous Innovation in the Industry

As the use of artificial intelligence (AI) such as ChatGPT becomes more widespread, banks are also engaging in fierce competition to offer a variety of AI-powered services. By adding not only financial-related features but also unique AI functions, they are attracting younger customers.

According to KakaoBank on November 26, the bank plans to introduce an AI-powered group treasurer feature ahead of the year-end and New Year gathering season next month. This function allows AI to efficiently handle treasurer tasks such as managing group funds. Recently, KakaoBank also unveiled an 'AI Transfer' technology that enables users to send money simply by conversing with a generative AI. If a customer requests a transfer in everyday language, the AI processes the transaction on their behalf. A KakaoBank representative explained, "Our goal is to evolve into a financial lifestyle app with AI as its core foundation."

Toss Bank recently launched a feature in its app that predicts what a couple's future child might look like using AI. By leveraging AI technology, the experiential service generates an image of a baby based on the parents' facial features. If users upload a clear, front-facing photo, the app creates an image of their potential baby. Within just one week of its release, the service was used by 10,000 people and has proven especially popular among customers in their 20s and 30s.

Not only internet-only banks but also conventional banks are rapidly rolling out AI services to enhance convenience.

Woori Bank launched its 'AI Subscription Consultant' on November 24. This is the first subscription consultation service in the financial sector to utilize generative AI. Customers can ask questions about the complex housing subscription process, and the AI provides customized answers based on document searches and subscription account information. The service also offers estimated subscription scores and rankings, and recommends personalized subscription announcements.

Earlier this month, KB Kookmin Bank introduced 'Home-Finding AI' on its comprehensive real estate platform, KB Real Estate. The AI analyzes property listings and key location information such as transportation and environment registered by certified real estate agents, enabling customers to easily find homes that match their preferences through conversational interaction. The platform also features an 'AI Briefing' function that summarizes key information about properties.

Shinhan Bank has also begun pilot operations of its 'AI MOLI Counter' at its Sookmyung Women's University branch in Yongsan-gu, Seoul, starting early this month. The service features the bank's mascot, MOLI, as an AI banker. Customers can use the AI MOLI Counter to handle 66 different transactions, including account inquiries and transfers, reissuance of bankbooks and check cards, and currency exchange. They can also immediately receive transaction certificates and physical bankbook documents.

Hana Bank is expanding its use of AI mainly in its business operations. The bank has launched a consultation support bot, an AI model for detecting malicious apps, automated AI export-import screening, AI multilingual translation, and an AI pension program, all aimed at improving work efficiency.

Banks are actively exploring various approaches to enhance the competitiveness of their future AI services. A banking industry official commented, "Not immediately, but in the long term, those who successfully integrate AI services with finance and strengthen their technological capabilities will be the ones to survive."