Thunes has announced a strategic collaboration with WireBarley to expand real-time cross-border payment capabilities across key global corridors. The partnership is designed to support digital transformation in international money movement while enabling WireBarley’s continued expansion across the Asia-Pacific region and beyond.
Furthermore, by connecting to Thunes’ Direct Global Network, the 1.1 million total users of WireBarley can enjoy the benefits of cost-effective instant remittance services covering seven sending countries and over 520 payout corridors.This also adds real-time payment solutions for remitters to South Korea and increases access to South Korean, U.S, Australian and Vietnamese markets.
Strengthening South Korea’s Role in Global Fintech
Partnership to overhaul the way cross-border transactions flow in one of Asia’s most modern financial markets. Further developing both B2B and consumer payment functions allows the flow of capital into and out of South Korea to be made more efficient.
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This partnership arrives in the midst of a swelling remittance market in the North Asia region. Outbound remittances from South Korea totaled $7.45 billion in 2024 and are forecasted to have a CAGR of 16.7% through 2030 in the digital remittances subsector.
The alliance provides both companies an opportunity to take advantage of the growth in the North Asia region, and help to accelerate the development of digital finance there. Furthermore, by establishing the alliances’ multi-direction growth channel Thunes will gain regional expertise for the South Korean market and WireBarley will be able to grow its international footprint.
Enabling Real-Time, Borderless Financial Experiences
Through this integration, both companies aim to eliminate inefficiencies in global money transfers by delivering seamless, real-time payment experiences. The collaboration reflects a shared focus on building a more connected and accessible financial ecosystem for businesses and individuals operating across borders.
Peter De Caluwe, Co-Founder and CEO at Thunes, said: “Our collaboration with WireBarley represents a shared strategic vision to remove fragmentation in global money movement. It’s a perfect example of how Thunes’ Direct Global Network can serve as a catalyst for fintech innovation and growth through real-time cross-border money movement. By bridging the gap between South Korea and the rest of the world, we are supporting Thunes’ presence in North Asia and empowering WireBarley to scale their vision of a borderless financial ecosystem.”
John Joongwon Yoo, Co-Founder and CEO of WireBarley, said: “Thunes is a core strategic partner in our mission, built on the strong trust we have developed over the years and our shared commitment to a market-leading spirit. Together, we will deliver game-changing and seamless cross-border payment services in real time across multiple countries and regions, while accelerating our regional presence and strategic business expansion.”
