The Korea Investment Corporation (KIC) is set to open a new office in Tokyo to enhance its alternative investment strategy in Japan. This move aims to capitalize on opportunities arising from ongoing corporate governance reforms and business restructuring within Japanese companies.
According to Bloomberg, KIC plans to establish its Tokyo office in early July, marking the first time the sovereign wealth fund, which manages assets worth $232 billion (approximately 355 trillion won), has set up a separate base in Japan.
The Tokyo office will be KIC's sixth overseas location, joining existing offices in New York, London, Singapore, Mumbai, and San Francisco.
KIC cited the evolving landscape of Japan's alternative investment market as a key factor for this expansion. KIC's Chief Investment Officer, Lee Hoon, stated in a recent announcement, "The Japanese alternative investment market is undergoing a structural transformation, creating opportunities to secure high-quality assets."
As of the end of last year, alternative assets accounted for over 20% of KIC's total portfolio. The Tokyo office will also explore traditional asset investment opportunities, including equities and bonds.
Lee added, "Corporate governance reforms and portfolio restructuring are underway in Japan, and we expect Japan to offer differentiated investment opportunities in Asia."
KIC recorded an annual return of 13.9% last year. The opening of the Tokyo office is expected to facilitate local asset discovery and the establishment of an investment network in Japan.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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