[Asia Smart Finance Awards] FSS: "Securities Firms Achieve Innovation... Investor Protection Also Urged"

Congratulatory Remarks by Seo Jaewan, Deputy Governor of the Financial Supervisory Service

First of all, I would like to sincerely congratulate you on the successful hosting of the '2025 Asia Smart Finance Awards' ceremony. I would like to express my gratitude to Jang Beomsik, CEO of The Asia Business Daily, and all those involved for organizing this meaningful event. I also extend my heartfelt congratulations to the executives and staff members of the securities firms who are being honored today.

Recently, our stock market has shown remarkable achievements, with the KOSPI reaching an all-time high. I believe this is the result of the government's unwavering policies to vitalize the capital market, as well as the relentless efforts of the securities industry to innovate investment services. I would like to express my deep appreciation for your dedication to advancing the domestic capital market.

Recently, the digital transformation of the capital market has entered a new phase, centered on artificial intelligence (AI) and big data. Innovative technologies such as AI-based robo-advisors, tokenized securities utilizing blockchain technology, and fractional investment products are rapidly spreading throughout the capital market. These not only enhance investor convenience and improve market efficiency, but also serve as a crucial driving force for our financial industry to secure global competitiveness.

The government is also making every effort to foster a boom in AI-driven innovative industries and to lead technological economic growth through various means, including the National Growth Fund. In line with these trends, we are striving to ensure that innovative technologies in the securities industry are properly established in the market. As you are at the forefront of investor engagement, I ask for your continued attention to ensure that investments in digital innovation industries can proceed smoothly.

Meanwhile, as digital finance expands, the importance of investor protection and system stability is growing even further. Alongside technological innovation, we must firmly establish the foundation of trust through personal data protection, prevention of IT system failures, and ensuring the transparency of AI algorithms. It is also essential to be particularly mindful that rapid technological advancements do not lead to the exclusion of certain investor groups or restrict investor choice. The Financial Supervisory Service will actively support the creation of a stable digital financial environment through close communication with the industry, without hindering creative innovation.

Warren Buffett, the legendary investor, once said, "It takes 20 years to build a reputation and five minutes to ruin it." Innovation in the capital market is only truly complete when it is backed by investor trust, not just technological advancement. I urge you to continue your efforts to protect investors, including ensuring IT security and strengthening safeguards, even as digital innovation accelerates. I look forward to your continued responsible leadership of our capital market. Thank you.

Seo Jaewan, Deputy Governor of the Financial Supervisory Service

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