As other lenders have struggled in the small business market recently, Hanmi Bank has grown its SBA loan production by double digits in the first six months of this year.
The Los Angeles based- bank increased its SBA loan production by 18% between January and June 2025 over the same time period in 2024. In fiscal year 2024, Hanmi Bank reported $187 million in SBA loans, which was a 25% increase over fiscal year 2023.
Led by executive vice president and chief community lending officer Anna Chung, Hanmi Bank continues to stay the course through chaotic markets and tough conditions.
"Our continued progress really demonstrates the strength and stability of our SBA business as well as the resilience of our team members who continue to deliver solid results in all market conditions," Chung told American Banker. "It underscores our ability to support small business owners with the solutions they need and the long-term sustainability of our lending platform."
Last year Chung led the development of a strategic initiative designed to bridge the gap between Hanmi's array of products and what its customers and the broader community need. The project launched at the beginning of this year, and Chung is overseeing all aspects, including onboarding a diverse team of experienced professionals; establishing partnerships with national, regional and local organizations; and launching community outreach programs.
"The impetus for this effort came from recognizing that while lending is core to our business, our role goes beyond making loans," Chung said. "We are providing tools, education and access to services that help small business leaders navigate financial institutions and achieve their dreams. We're investing in new platforms, expanding our reach, and finding ways to support multi-ethnic communities beyond our physical footprint."
This is especially dear to Chung's heart as a first generation immigrant whose father came to the US from Korea and became a small business owner.
"From an early age, I saw the grit and risk-taking that was needed to succeed," she said. "That background enables me to empathize with entrepreneurs and really get excited about their ideas."
Chung's mission is also about helping small business owners when something goes wrong. After the wildfires in California, where Hanmi Bank has branches, the bank set up a seminar to provide information, in multiple languages, on SBA disaster assistance for homeowners, renters, nonprofits and businesses. During the event, Hanmi Bank also facilitated the acceptance of relief applications on site.
According to Chung, the father of a Korean American restaurant owner whose establishment burned down in the fires attended to gather information about available aid, because his son was too busy with the clean up to attend. He was able to get that info in his native Korean.
"Anna has been so generous with her time and talent," Bonnie Lee, president and CEO of Hanmi Bank, said. "She's always going out and supporting various engagements, even on the weekends and that has been really instrumental in supporting the business community.
"For us, community lending is not just another revenue stream, it's part of the soul of the bank," Chung said.
