The Korean bank hosts matchmaking nights once or twice a year for children of its VIP and Gold clients. In an offering that is regularly oversubscribed, the bank puts 20 single men and 20 single women together for dinner (all voluntarily) as a means of introduction.
"Culturally Asians are quite shy and not very proactive when it comes to approaching a potential partner," says Amy Lee, head of planning and strategies at Hana Private Bank. "It is also difficult for people in careers to find time to meet a soulmate. On top of that fact, there are expectations from the family on the type of partner that would be suitable. It’s an extremely popular service." Those attending get only one shot but can then join the bank’s club (Hana Private Banking Members) where they can meet others who have attended the events and refer friends.
In the seven years that the private bank has been running the nights 20 weddings have resulted. And do the private bankers attend the happy day? "Of course," says Lee. "It’s a huge celebration and the bankers and those who organized the event always try to make it."