According to Odaily, the Bank of Korea has decided to keep its benchmark interest rate unchanged in an effort to curb rising housing prices. This decision marks the 13th consecutive meeting where the central bank has maintained the same rate, the longest period of stability since 2008. The central bank also adjusted its forward guidance to a more moderate stance, paving the way for potential policy shifts in the coming months.
Following the government's announcement, the Korean won and the yield on three-year government bonds saw slight declines. The central bank's committee has been cautious about lowering rates, fearing that any indication of a rate cut could further fuel housing price increases in Seoul and its surrounding areas. Thursday's statement leaned towards a dovish tone, as the central bank removed its previous commitment to keep rates stable for an extended period, suggesting that a rate cut may be approaching.