Hwang Byung-woo, chairman of DGB Financial Group, speaks at his inauguration ceremony at DGB Daegu Bank's headquarters in Daegu, Thursday. Courtesy of DGB Financial Group

Hwang Byung-woo was named chairman of DGB Financial Group Thursday during the group's general shareholders' meeting.

His three-year tenure began the same day, and he will concurrently serve as DGB Daegu Bank's interim CEO.

"I aspire to work passionately as the new captain of the DGB, motivated by a deep sense of responsibility to advance the company alongside our employees and ensure a sustainable environment for coming generations," Hwang said during his inauguration ceremony at the bank's headquarters in Daegu.

His appointment came at a critical juncture as DGB Daegu Bank seeks to transition into a commercial bank.

"Given that we've embarked on a new phase with our transition, it's crucial to develop a distinctive DGB business model — one that diverges from traditional financial approaches," Hwang said.

"As the most regionally focused national bank, we need to carve out a new position for ourselves, while simultaneously seeking strategies to enhance group synergy," he added.

Hwang also highlighted the importance of the digital transition, saying his commitment to investing all efforts as if he were founding a new IT company.

"We will build a strong internal management framework while consolidating a distinct identity as pioneers in ESG-centric finance externally," Hwang said.

Born in 1967, Hwang began his career at DGB Daegu Bank in 1998. After holding various roles within the bank, he was appointed as its CEO in January last year.