Bank of Korea holds rate at 3% after two hikes, signals continued tightening

Briefing by News4U · First published

The BOK kept its benchmark rate at 3% on Oct. 22 after July and August hikes, citing Middle East tensions and inflation near 3%.

The Bank of Korea held its key rate steady at 3% after consecutive July and August hikes, with all seven board members supporting the pause to assess risks from Middle East conflict and major-economy policies. [1] [2] [3]

Inflation hovered near 3% (2.8% in July, 3.1% in August, 2.9% in September) and is expected to stay similar in October amid rising oil prices. Governor Shin Hyun-song said further tightening is needed until inflation converges to the 2% target, expected in 2028. [1] [2] [3]

Sources

  1. (2nd LD) BOK holds key rate steady at 3 pct after 2 consecutive rate hikes

    Yonhap Business · · Full text

  2. BOK holds rate at 3%, leaves door open to November hike

    Pulse by Maeil Business · · Full text

  3. (3rd LD) BOK holds rate at 3 pct after 2 straight hikes, signals continued tightening

    Yonhap Business · · Excerpt

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