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Bank of Korea Holds Rates Steady Amid Inflation Concerns

1/13/2026

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Summary

Story summary

The Bank of Korea (BoK) will hold its key rate at 2.50% amid a weakening won and rising inflation.
Economists expect no rate cuts through 2026, shifting away from expectations of a first-quarter reduction.
The won has fallen nearly 2% in early January, and Seoul apartment prices continue to rise.
Analysts suggest that falling oil prices may ease inflation pressures, but the BoK remains cautious ahead of the January 15 meeting.

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Story summary

The Bank of Korea (BoK) will hold its key rate at 2.50% amid a weakening won and rising inflation.
Economists expect no rate cuts through 2026, shifting away from expectations of a first-quarter reduction.
The won has fallen nearly 2% in early January, and Seoul apartment prices continue to rise.
Analysts suggest that falling oil prices may ease inflation pressures, but the BoK remains cautious ahead of the January 15 meeting.