South Korea’s Hanwha Life Invests in Vietnam's FinTech Future, Building a Skilled Workforce

Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam – As Vietnam rapidly emerges as a leading FinTech hub in Southeast Asia, South Korean financial services giant Hanwha Life is deepening its commitment to fostering a skilled workforce and driving innovation through its comprehensive ‘FuturePlus’ initiative. Beyond traditional corporate social responsibility (CSR), the program is strategically building a pipeline of talent, contributing to Vietnam's burgeoning digital economy, and strengthening economic ties between the two nations.

A Growing FinTech Landscape

Vietnam’s FinTech sector is experiencing explosive growth, fueled by high smartphone penetration, a young and tech-savvy population, and a supportive regulatory environment. Recent data indicates that the sector is projected to reach a valuation of USD 7.78 billion by 2030, with a projected Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 17.85%. This growth is attracting significant foreign investment, and Vietnam is quickly becoming a key player in the regional FinTech landscape.

“The potential here is immense,” explained one industry analyst based in Ho Chi Minh City. “Vietnam is not just adopting FinTech, it’s innovating. We're seeing local companies develop solutions tailored to the specific needs of the Vietnamese market, and that’s attracting a lot of attention.”

Beyond Philanthropy: A Strategic Investment in Talent

Hanwha Life’s ‘FuturePlus’ initiative is a multi-faceted program designed to nurture this potential. It goes beyond simply donating funds; it’s a long-term investment in education, skills development, and community empowerment. The program’s core pillars include partnerships with leading Vietnamese universities, scholarship programs for promising students, and mentorship opportunities designed to bridge the gap between academia and industry.

“We see Vietnam as a key growth market, and we believe that investing in the development of local talent is the most sustainable way to achieve long-term success,” said a Hanwha Life spokesperson. “'FuturePlus’ is not just about giving back to the community; it's about building a strong foundation for future innovation.”

The initiative’s impact is already being felt across the Vietnamese higher education landscape. Hanwha Life has partnered with the Vietnam–Korea University of Information and Communication Technology (VKU) to establish a dedicated FinTech major, providing students with the specialized knowledge and skills they need to thrive in the digital economy. Scholarships are also available for students at other top universities, including the Ho Chi Minh City University of Technology and the Ho Chi Minh City University of Social Sciences and Humanities.

From Classroom to Career: Bridging the Skills Gap

Recognizing that theoretical knowledge alone is not enough, Hanwha Life’s ‘FuturePlus’ program also emphasizes practical experience and mentorship. The company has launched a “Finance Mentor” initiative, training university students to provide financial literacy workshops to vulnerable communities. This not only empowers individuals with essential financial skills but also provides mentors with valuable hands-on experience and leadership opportunities.

Most recently, Hanwha Life hosted a group of Vietnamese FinTech students for an immersive training program in South Korea. The program provided participants with the opportunity to visit leading FinTech companies, learn about cutting-edge technologies, and network with industry professionals. “The experience was invaluable,” said one student participant. “It opened my eyes to the possibilities of FinTech and inspired me to pursue a career in this field.”

Strengthening Economic Ties

Hanwha Life’s investment in Vietnam’s FinTech ecosystem is also contributing to the strengthening of economic ties between South Korea and Vietnam. Bilateral trade between the two countries reached USD 86.7 billion in 2023, making Vietnam South Korea's third-largest trading partner. South Korean companies have invested heavily in Vietnam, particularly in the manufacturing and technology sectors.

“The relationship between South Korea and Vietnam is mutually beneficial,” explained an economic analyst based in Seoul. “Vietnam provides a dynamic and growing market for South Korean businesses, while South Korea provides Vietnam with valuable investment, technology, and expertise.”

A Long-Term Vision

As Vietnam’s FinTech sector continues to evolve, Hanwha Life is committed to remaining a long-term partner in its growth. The ‘FuturePlus’ initiative is not a one-time project; it’s an ongoing commitment to investing in the country’s future. The company plans to expand the program in the coming years, with a focus on developing new skills training programs, supporting local startups, and promoting financial inclusion.

“We believe that Vietnam has the potential to become a leading FinTech hub in Southeast Asia,” said the Hanwha Life spokesperson. “And we are committed to playing a role in making that vision a reality.”

By focusing on education, skills development, and community empowerment, Hanwha Life is not only contributing to the growth of Vietnam’s FinTech sector but also building a brighter future for the country as a whole. This initiative exemplifies how strategic CSR can drive innovation, strengthen economic ties, and create lasting positive impact.