Featuring commentary from Forvis Mazars experts and a contribution from Götz Treber of the German Insurance Association, this edition offers a valuable benchmarking tool for financial services professionals navigating uncertainty and seeking growth in a globalised economy.
The Korean financial industry, particularly insurers, has seen sustained and stable growth in recent years, fueled by a strong flow of capital into high-yield alternative investments, PF loans, and real estate trust products. This trajectory closely mirrors the broader outlook shared by financial services leaders around the world. However, Korea also faces distinct and mounting risks: the rapid expansion of household debt, the vulnerability of its export-driven economy to global slowdowns, rising credit and investment losses, and increasing public distrust due to repeated internal financial scandals—all of which have prompted stronger regulatory intervention. Looking ahead, the Korean market must pursue growth, but with a far more robust and clearly defined approach to risk management.
Je-Han Kim
Partner, Audit
Key findings
- Most leaders (96%) in the sector have a positive outlook for their businesses in 2025 with a majority (87%) reporting growing revenues.
- Economic uncertainty (37%) is listed as the main factor holding back growth, followed by increased competition (35%) and energy prices (33%).
- Over a third (36%) of sampled leaders feel “very confident” in their ability to manage key trends - a figure that has dropped sharply since last year.
Looking ahead, executives have outlined three core strategic priorities for 2025 and beyond: transformation through company IT and technology, new talent strategy and international expansion.
Explore the full findings and discover how financial services sector leaders are preparing for growth in a complex and competitive environment.
