Former Representative Gu Hee-jin Runs for Chairman of the Korea Financial Investment Association: "Not a Battle Between Seniors and Juniors"

[Asia Economy Reporter Junho Hwang] "I hope this is not seen as a competition between seniors and juniors from the same group. Throughout the election process, I will focus thoroughly on the future of the industry and the role of the association."

Former Daishin Asset Management CEO Koo Hee-jin made this statement on the 20th as he declared his candidacy for the Financial Investment Association presidency. He explained, "I delayed my announcement out of respect and trust for Daishin Financial Group, which nurtured me, and for the current respected president Na Jae-cheol. Because I value trust and etiquette, I had to carefully consider whether my candidacy would burden President Na or cast a negative light on the Candidate Recommendation Committee or member firms."

He continued, "This election should be evaluated not by specific group affiliations or regional and academic ties, but by whether the candidate can effectively perform the actual duties," adding, "I decided to run again reflecting on the purpose of this election, which is to select someone practically prepared for the future of our industry." President Na is also from Daishin Securities, like candidate Koo.

If elected president, candidate Koo stated he would serve as a 'Solution Provider.' He said, "We must establish comprehensive systems so that member company executives can focus solely on management, and the association should proactively prepare solutions through discussions with financial authorities and the revision of related regulations." He added, "We need to create accessible channels for member companies to frequently and easily present their demands and missions, and develop solutions accordingly," defining this as "the association's new role and essential value."

Candidate Koo also sees his background in asset management as a strength. He stated, "Due to the nature of the work, I am a financial investor who understands securities and asset management businesses best." Over his 33-year career in the financial investment industry, he spent 26 years at Daishin Securities, serving as division head and business unit leader for five years and rising to vice president. He also served as CEO of Daishin Asset Management. There has been criticism in the industry that the presidency has been continuously held by securities firm veterans, resulting in insufficient reflection of asset management firms' opinions.

Candidate Koo emphasized, "I currently maintain relationships with most securities firm CEOs," and said, "I will be a president who can be approached comfortably like a friend or junior for requests and collaboration."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.