CU begins deposit‑token payments pilots across Korea
Published on: Apr 6, 2026
BGF Retail partners with Hana Bank and the Bank of Korea to test everyday digital‑currency payments in convenience stores.
BGF Retail, the operator of CU convenience stores, has signed an agreement with Hana Bank and the Bank of Korea to advance the second phase of Project Hangang, the country’s pilot program for central‑bank digital currency and deposit tokens. The collaboration aims to expand real‑world use cases so customers can experience deposit‑token payments in daily shopping.
Project Hangang, jointly overseen by the Bank of Korea, the Financial Services Commission, and the Financial Supervisory Service, is designed to test how digital currency models can function within existing financial and retail systems. Phase two focuses on enabling consumer payments in familiar environments.
CU will participate using its nationwide network of more than 18,800 stores. The company optimized its POS infrastructure so store owners do not require additional equipment. Customers will be able to pay by scanning a barcode or QR code linked to deposit tokens issued through their banking apps.
Hana Bank users can access tokens via the Hana OneQ app, with added features such as peer‑to‑peer transfers, biometric authentication, and automatic conversion when balances fall short, creating a more seamless payment experience.
BGF Retail and Hana Bank also plan to introduce customer‑benefit programs tied to deposit‑token usage. Both companies have previously partnered on digital retail initiatives, and the new pilot is expected to accelerate the convergence of fintech and brick‑and‑mortar retail.
