The branch is attaching increasing importance to the loan business for Chinese companies during their overseas merger and acquisition activities.

FORBES: Where China Goes, Banks Will Follow

South Korea is likely to see a pickup in merger-and-acquisition activity this year, as its cash-rich companies shop for overseas assets and as the government is expected to renew efforts to unload state-held stakes now that December's presidential election is over.

WSJ: Korea Is Primed for M&A Deals

He received financing to back the deal, the largest merger-and-acquisition transaction introduced in Asia last year, from a group of banks including United Overseas Bank Ltd.

WSJ: Thailand's Charoen Heads Toward Takeover Fight