Sangjoong Kim, Head of the Payment Platform Business Division at KONA I (left), and Danny Han, CEO of DIOKOS (right)
DIOKOS Inc. (hereafter “DIOKOS”), the operator of KoreaAgain, has signed a strategic partnership (MOU) with KONA I Co., Ltd. (hereafter “KONA I”), a leading fintech company specializing in contactless solutions. The partnership aims to expand services designed to enhance the convenience of foreign residents in Korea.
Through this agreement, the two companies will focus on providing tailored services for foreigners, centered on the launch of the EXPAT-ESSENTIAL card, a co-branded product from KONA I and KoreaAgain. This prepaid card can be issued without a bank account or foreign registration card. Additionally, the card offers seasonal benefits that can be used at essential establishments such as pharmacies, Daiso, and convenience stores. It is also equipped with a transportation card function, aiming to minimize inconveniences faced by foreigners during their initial settlement process and to support their adaptation to life in Korea.
DIOKOS plans to actively promote the card through its platform, KoreaAgain (KoreaAgain.net). The company will also create and provide various user-friendly guides to help foreign users easily understand how to use the card, including its benefits, recharge, and refund methods, ensuring practical convenience.
Danny Han, CEO of DIOKOS, stated, “This partnership is a significant step towards resolving everyday inconveniences that foreigners face while living or visiting Korea. It will create a more positive financial and lifestyle experience in Korea. Through our collaboration with KONA I, we aim to further develop foreigner support services and enhance our competitiveness in the global market.”
Sangjoong Kim, Head of the Payment Platform Business Division at KONA I, commented, “Partnering with DIOKOS, which operates KoreaAgain, a leading platform for foreigners, will significantly help expand the user base for the EXPAT-ESSENTIAL card and increase its utility. We look forward to KONA CARD evolving beyond a simple payment tool to become a global fintech solution that delivers tangible benefits and value to foreign users.”
