Bank of Korea holds at 2.5% and drops easing-bias language as growth risks tilt up

Investinglive
2026.01.15 01:38
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The Bank of Korea has maintained its base rate at 2.5%, aligning with market expectations, while signaling a firmer policy stance. The central bank highlighted favorable export conditions, particularly in the semiconductor sector, and flagged upside risks to the 2026 growth outlook. Notably, it removed dovish language regarding potential rate cuts, indicating less confidence in needing to lower rates soon. The BOK remains cautious about financial stability, housing risks, and currency volatility, particularly concerning the won's recent weakness. Inflation is expected to gradually decline towards 2%.