South Korea central bank delivers back-to-back rate hike, as expected
The move, predicted by most economists, lifts the base rate to its highest level since January 2025 as inflation stays above target.
- On Thursday, the Bank of Korea raised its benchmark interest rate by 25 basis points to 3%, marking a second consecutive increase to address persistent inflation and financial stability risks.
- Rising inflation prompted the move, with core rates hitting 2.6% in July and headline inflation trending upward since the Iran war began in February, despite cooling to 2.8%.
- Housing prices in Seoul jumped 2.5% month on month in June, marking the highest rise in five years, according to South Korean news outlet Asia Business Daily.
- Inflation is forecast to remain above the 2% target level for a considerable time, prompting the central bank to "continue a policy stance consistent with further rate hikes."
- BOK Governor Shin Hyun Song will discuss the decision at a press conference today, following a seven-member board vote that aligned with predictions from 18 of 35 economists surveyed.
24 Articles
24 Articles
Bank of Korea Delivers Back-to-Back Rate Hikes as Semiconductor Boom Fuels Stronger Growth and Stubborn Inflation
The Bank of Korea raised its benchmark rate by 25 basis points to 3%. It did so for the second meeting in a row. Policymakers acted to head off broadening price pressures even as the economy outperforms forecasts on the back of a semiconductor surge tied to artificial intelligence demand. Six of seven Monetary Policy Board members backed the move. One member, Hwang Kunil, voted to hold at 2.75%. The decision, delivered Thursday in Seoul, marks t…
Global Market: Bank of Korea hikes rates again to 3% as growth, inflation stay firm
South Korea’s central bank raised its benchmark interest rate by 25 basis points to 3% for a second straight meeting, citing stronger-than-expected economic growth and persistent inflationary pressures from higher energy costs. The Bank of Korea also upgraded its growth forecasts, while strong semiconductor exports and AI-driven chip demand are expected to support the economy and equities.
The Straits Times
Free Malaysia Today NewsSouth Korea announces second successive rate hike
The increase, from 2.75 per cent to 3.0 per cent followed a similar move in July. Read more at straitstimes.com.
South Korea central bank delivers back-to-back rate hike, as expected
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