Banks to open one hour later on college entrance exam day

(Yonhap News)

Banks across South Korea will adjust their operating hours on Thursday, Nov. 13, the day of the 2026 College Scholastic Ability Test (CSAT), opening one hour later than usual to help ease morning traffic congestion.

According to the Korea Federation of Banks on Tuesday, bank branches nationwide will operate from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., instead of the usual 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. schedule. The change is aimed at ensuring smoother traffic flow for students, parents, and exam supervisors heading to test sites that morning.

Banks located in airports, industrial zones, markets, or government offices may maintain regular hours or operate on separate schedules depending on local circumstances, the federation added. Customers planning in-person visits are advised to check branch hours in advance.