KB Kookmin Bank launches instant wage transfer service to prevent pay delays for daily workers

KB Kookmin Bank has launched a wage payment service for daily and platform workers as part of its push to expand inclusive finance.

The bank announced Sunday it has partnered with Ilgaja, a daily worker placement platform operated by Job&Partners, to roll out the "Zero Wage Theft Instant Transfer" service for gig workers and daily laborers. The two companies plan to operate the service for 340,000 daily workers and approximately 190,000 worksites across the country.

The service uses a firm banking system within the Ilgaja platform to transfer wages directly from employers to workers' bank accounts. Placement fees for labor brokerage are sent separately to employment agencies, clearly distinguishing wages from brokerage charges.

The launch comes as short-term platform-based work in sectors such as delivery, construction, events and logistics has grown rapidly, making stable wage payment systems for gig and daily workers an increasingly pressing issue. The two companies plan to expand the service's coverage and introduce additional features to improve financial access for gig and daily workers.

The service also includes online tools for workplace labor and tax administration — covering electronic employment contracts, digital signatures, electronic pay stub issuance, placement fee settlement and electronic invoice issuance. KB Kookmin Bank expects the service to strengthen transparency and reliability in the wage payment process while helping prevent wage theft and protect workers' rights.

In addition, the bank and Job&Partners will collaborate on developing fintech solutions that link job-matching platform data with financial infrastructure, in line with the government's campaign to eradicate wage theft. The partnership aims to reinforce systems for preventing unpaid wages.

"We hope this service ensures that daily workers and gig workers receive accurate and secure compensation for their work," a KB Kookmin Bank official said. "We will continue to expand our inclusive finance efforts to protect the rights of customers who are vulnerable to financial exclusion and to improve their access to financial services."