076 governance report 085 Global Initiatives 095 Quantitative Data 110 GRI Standards Index 113 Independent Assurance Statement process and criteria for the appointment of independent Directors Independent directors are elected at the general shareholders’ meeting with the recommendation by the Independent Director Recommendation Committee and Shinhan Financial Group makes sure that independent directors with financial experience and expertise in various areas can be included in the committee based on the independence requirements stated in the related laws and regulations.