Shinhan Life Vietnam’s four-year efforts to build sustainable value for communities

The approach reflects a broader trend in which corporate social responsibility (CSR) is increasingly integrated into core business planning rather than treated as stand-alone philanthropy.

Shinhan Life Insurance Vietnam Limited Liability Company (Shinhan Life Vietnam) has spent the past four years implementing a sustainability-oriented strategy that aligns its commercial expansion with longer-term community development. As CSR practices evolve, many companies are placing greater emphasis on social, environmental and ethical considerations alongside financial performance.

Shinhan Life Vietnam’s representative (C) receiving Saigon Times’ “Corporate for the Community” award. Photo courtesy of Shinhan Life Vietnam

In this context, CSR is no longer limited to charitable donations. In Vietnam and globally, businesses are increasingly designing programs that address social needs while drawing on their professional expertise and industry strengths. This approach views sustainability as a balance of economic contribution, social well-being and responsibility toward communities.

Strategy rooted in sustainable development

Shinhan Life Vietnam officially began operations in January 2022 and has adopted a sustainability-driven strategy since its early stages in the market. This direction follows the business philosophy of its parent company, Shinhan Life Insurance Corporation, which focuses on strengthening financial foundations, leveraging insurance expertise and identifying long-term growth drivers.

In Vietnam, Shinhan Life Vietnam says it aims to improve quality of life through accessible and affordable financial solutions, while allocating resources to CSR programs intended to deliver practical benefits to communities, particularly children and young people.

Shinhan Life Vietnam was honored for the second consecutive year for its outstanding CSR contributions to the community. Photo courtesy of Shinhan Life Vietnam

Shinhan Life Vietnam was honored for the second consecutive year for its outstanding CSR contributions to the community. Photo courtesy of Shinhan Life Vietnam

After nearly four years of community programs, the company received the “Corporate for the Community” title for the second consecutive year at the Saigon Times CSR 2025 Merit Ceremony. Held under the theme “Toward a Sustainable Society,” the program highlighted the importance of balancing economic growth, environmental protection and social equity. The award recognized the company’s initiatives in youth education and healthcare.

Youth wellbeing at the center of CSR efforts

Bae Seung Jun, CEO of Shinhan Life Vietnam, said the recognition reflects the company’s ongoing commitment to community engagement.

“This title is not only recognition of the efforts of our entire team but also a strong motivation for us to remain steadfast in our mission,” he said.

Since entering Vietnam, Shinhan Life Vietnam has rolled out programs aimed at supporting disadvantaged children and youth, focusing on healthcare, education and life skills development. The company has also introduced career guidance initiatives for high school and university students to help prepare them for future employment.

Shinhan Life Vietnam has accompanied pediatric leukemia patients on their treatment journey for four years. Photo courtesy of Shinhan Life Vietnam

Shinhan Life Vietnam has accompanied pediatric leukemia patients on their treatment journey for four years. Photo courtesy of Shinhan Life Vietnam

One of its long-running initiatives supports pediatric leukemia patients at the Children’s Hospital in Ho Chi Minh City. Over four years, Shinhan Life Vietnam has provided a total of VND750 million (US$28,525) to help cover treatment costs for 60 children.

The company has also partnered with SOS Children’s Villages Vietnam for nearly four years, supporting children and adolescents at SOS villages in Hanoi, Da Nang, Go Vap and Ben Tre. Activities have included funding for facility upgrades such as multipurpose rooms and playgrounds, as well as community engagement programs. A central component of this partnership is the iLead education program, which provides career guidance and skills for independent living.

Another initiative is the S-Career career guidance program for high school students, implemented during 2024–2025. Conducted at eight schools, the program reached nearly 3,500 students and provided more than 350 teachers with tools to support career orientation.

Supporting Vietnam’s youth for a more sustainable future is a key priority in Shinhan Life’s CSR strategy. Photo courtesy of Shinhan Life Vietnam

Supporting Vietnam’s youth for a more sustainable future is a key priority in Shinhan Life’s CSR strategy. Photo courtesy of Shinhan Life Vietnam

In addition, Shinhan Life Vietnam launched the Shinhan Life S-Cellence Scholarship 2025 to support university students in strengthening professional skills and career readiness. Each scholarship provides VND10 million and includes a one-month internship at the company.

Looking ahead, Bae Seung Jun said Shinhan Life Vietnam plans to continue expanding practical programs focused on young people.

“We believe that investing in education, healthcare, and essential life skills for adolescents will help build a healthier community and contribute to a more sustainable future for Vietnam,” he said.

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