Hana Bank's GLN Launches Extensive QR Payment Network for Travelers in Korea

GLN's Expansion of QR Payment Network in Korea

In a significant move for the financial technology landscape, GLN International, a subsidiary of Hana Bank, has launched an extensive expansion of its QR payment network throughout South Korea. This initiative, which is set to greatly benefit international travelers, enhances the availability of QR payment services across 1.5 million merchants. The expansion results from a partnership with Coocon, integrating GLN's technology with Seoul Pay, a QR-based payment system designed to streamline transactions for both small businesses and tourists.

Partnership with Coocon: A Game Changer

GLN's collaboration with Coocon marks a pivotal point in enhancing the QR payment ecosystem in Korea. By adding approximately 500,000 Merchant Presented Mode (MPM) QR merchants to its existing network, GLN has effectively broadened access for global visitors. Prior to this development, GLN had already established around 1 million Customer Presented Mode (CPM) QR merchants through collaborations with other payment providers such as Hana Card. With this expansion, foreign travelers can now make seamless transactions using their preferred banking or fintech applications, all without the need for currency exchange or physical cards.

Surging Popularity of QR Payments Among Tourists

Recent data reveals a staggering increase in QR payment usage among inbound international travelers. In the first half of 2026, both the transaction volume and value of QR payments witnessed an impressive 1,000% increase compared to the latter half of 2025. This surge indicates a significant shift in consumer behaviors, aligning with the growing trend of digitized payments globally. Travelers are now not only utilizing QR payments in established shopping districts like Myeong-dong but are also exploring newer commercial areas such as Seongsu, which is rapidly becoming a hub for retail and dining.

Expansion Beyond the Conventional

The diverse merchant network now supports various popular retail brands such as Musinsa, Daelim Warehouse, and Blue Elephant, facilitating easy transactions for international visitors. Notably, key consumer venues — including Shinsegae Duty Free, Galleria Department Store, and multiple cafés and restaurants — have recognized the increasing demand for modern payment solutions, further contributing to the QR payment boom.

Interestingly, the trend is not limited to Seoul. Major tourist destinations like Busan and Jeju are also witnessing a rise in QR payment usage, particularly in sectors benefiting from Korea's booming beauty and medical tourism. QR payments are becoming prevalent even at dermatology and plastic surgery clinics, which are increasingly frequented by international patients.

Future Prospects and Global Reach

Looking ahead, GLN plans to bolster its QR payment services further by expanding access to travelers from countries such as the United States, Canada, Singapore, Vietnam, and Mongolia later this year. By 2027, GLN aims to extend its services to over 10 countries, quietly paving the way for a truly international QR payment experience. As a pioneer in enhancing cross-border transactions, GLN is set to make QR payments accessible at numerous tourist hotspots across Korea, thus catalyzing both the local economy and the tourism sector.

A Commitment to Innovation

CEO Lee Suk articulated the company's vision by stating, "We will continue to expand our QR payment merchant network, aiming to provide inbound international travelers with a simple and convenient payment experience while contributing to the growth of local businesses and Korea's tourism industry." Additionally, GLN is already offering QR payment and cash withdrawal services to Korean travelers across 15 countries, significantly bolstering its status as a leading cross-border payment platform within Asia.

In conclusion, GLN’s strategic expansion of its QR payment network is not only a breakthrough for travelers but also a remarkable shift for South Korea's retail landscape, reflecting the rapid digitization of consumer finance in the travel sector. This initiative emphasizes the significant role of seamless payment solutions in enhancing the overall tourist experience and promoting local market growth.