Mastercard appoints Yunsok Chang as division president for Japan

Mastercard has announced the appointment of Yunsok Chang as division president, Japan. In this role, Yunsok will lead Mastercard’s operations in Japan, driving strategic partnerships, enhancing the brand presence, and advancing innovative payment solutions across the country.

Yunsok returns to this role, having previously served from September 2020 to July 2022. During that tenure, he developed deep expertise and a nuanced understanding of Japan’s digital payment ecosystem — experience that will be instrumental as he resumes leadership in this space.

With over three decades of experience in financial services and payments industries, he has earlier held various leadership roles in Japan as well as in Korea, United Kingdom, and Mastercard’s regional and global headquarters in Singapore and New York.  He joined Mastercard 23 years ago as Country Manager for Korea and then led several critical business functions across the Asia Pacific region. He also held two global roles before returning to Asia Pacific and now, to Japan for the second time.

Most recently, Yunsok served as executive vice president, Market Development, Asia Pacific, based in Singapore.

“Japan is one of Mastercard’s most strategically significant markets. As we sharpen our focus on market-specific opportunities, Yunsok’s appointment reflects our commitment to deepening our presence and impact in Japan.” Ari Sarker, president, Asia Pacific said, “With a strong track record of scaling businesses, driving innovation, and placing customers at the core, his leadership will be pivotal in advancing Mastercard’s next phase of growth and reinforcing our reputation in this critical market.”

“I am excited to return to Japan and contribute to Mastercard’s continued innovation and meaningful partnerships in this dynamic market,” said Yunsok Chang, division president, Japan. “Having previously worked in Japan, I’ve strong appreciation for the country’s sophisticated consumer expectations, meticulous regulatory environment, and the pivotal role that trusted local partnerships play in advancing innovation. I look forward to collaborating with our customers, regulators, and government partners to accelerate the shift toward a more inclusive, secure, and digitally empowered payments ecosystem — together with Mastercard’s dedicated team in Japan.”

Yunsok will be based in Tokyo and report to Ari Sarker, president, Asia Pacific.

Dongchun Choi — who previously oversaw Mastercard’s operations across North-East Asia — will now serve as division president, Korea. His deep understanding of the market, trusted relationships, and proven track record make him well-positioned to lead Mastercard’s growth and strategy in Korea.

Ken Uchiyama, currently country manager, Japan, will be leaving Mastercard to pursue other interests.