CEOs of major banks grilled at Assembly audit over AI cyberattacks

Five top bank CEOs faced intense questioning at a National Assembly audit on Monday, following a string of AI-aided cyberattacks, lawmakers expressed deep concerns about cybersecurity and internal controls. CEO's from KB Kookmin Bank, Shinhan Bank, Hana Bank, Woori Bank and NH NongHyup Bank were summoned as key witnesses to the parliamentary probe conducted by the Financial Supervisory Service (FSS). This marked the first time in over a year that all five bank leaders appeared together for such an audit.

KB Kookmin Bank CEO Lee Hwan-ju expressed sincere apologies to customers and the public for the security incident, which eroded trust in a financial institution. He vowed to prevent future occurrences by securing ample budgets, personnel and enhancing security systems against AI-powered cyber threats. Shinhan Bank CEO Jung Sang-hyuk also issued a deep apology, responding to Rep. Kim Jae-sub's question about the incident.