Bank of Korea
South Korea logs record current account surplus in March
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The Bank of Korea reported that South Korea posted its largest-ever monthly current account surplus of $37.33 billion in March, driven by strong semiconductor exports.
New Bank of Korea Governor Shin Hyun-song and Finance Minister Koo Yun-cheol agreed on Thursday to bolster policy coordination amid market volatility from the Middle East crisis during their first meeting in Seoul. They emphasized the need for aligned monetary and fiscal policies amid tensions between growth and inflation. Discussions will continue on foreign exchange stability and structural reforms.
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South Korea's real GDP jumped 1.7 percent in Q1 2026 from the prior quarter—the strongest growth in 5½ years—despite Middle East tensions, easily topping the Bank of Korea's 0.9 percent forecast on robust exports and steady domestic demand. Part of the rebound following 2025's modest 1% annual expansion (see prior article in series).
Foreign currency deposits in South Korea rose for a second consecutive month in December, hitting an all-time high amid weakness in the won. According to Bank of Korea data, outstanding deposits held by residents reached $119.43 billion, up $1.59 billion from the previous month. The surge reflects increased dollar holdings by companies and individuals due to currency volatility.
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South Korea's gross domestic product grew 1 percent in 2025 from the previous year, according to Bank of Korea data, but the fourth quarter saw an unexpected 0.3 percent contraction. Strong exports drove the annual figure despite weakness in construction. This marks half the 2 percent expansion of 2024.
A survey shows more than nine out of ten bond experts believe the Bank of Korea will hold its policy rate steady at 2.5% for a fourth consecutive time this week. Factors like an upward revision in economic growth forecasts and ongoing weakness in the Korean won bolster this outlook. The central bank's rate-setting meeting is scheduled for Thursday.