Markel Insurance has appointed John Bang as its first head of Korea and Japan, effective immediately, the specialty insurer announced on Thursday.
Bang joins the business from Zurich, where he held several leadership roles in Asia, most recently as head of country desks, Asia and global relationship leader. He has worked in the insurance industry for more than 10 years, including experience in Korea and Japan, and a background in marine underwriting and business development.
Bang will launch dedicated Japan and Korea desks and lead Markel International’s operations in both markets, with a focus on building its wholesale book and strengthening ties with local partners and cedents.
“We’re delighted to welcome John to Markel in this important leadership role,” said Sucheng Chang, who was appointed Asia-Pacific managing director for Markel last June. “Japan and Korea are sophisticated, high‑growth specialty insurance markets, and John’s deep local knowledge, language skills, and trusted relationships make him exceptionally well‑suited to lead our expansion.”
Bang’s appointment comes amid a broader push by the business to strengthen its presence in the Asia-Pacific region. Alongside Chang’s appointment to regional MD in 2025, Markel appointed Chelsea Jiang as managing director for Greater China in July and Flora Mao as its first casualty underwriter in Mainland China last month, and promoted Phil Amlot to lead the expansion of its international trade credit business, including in Asia, this week.
