Building on recent verbal interventions, including a December 24 joint statement, experts predict the Korean won-dollar exchange rate will average 1,420 for 2025. The won fell to a post-November low of 1,440.3 per dollar on Friday, as authorities' measures continue through year-end.
Financial authorities' intensified verbal interventions, following the December 24 joint press notice deeming excessive won weakness undesirable, have formed a new psychological resistance level, curbing the currency's slide. The won closed at 1,440.3 per dollar on Friday—its lowest since November 4—after surging over 30 won last week amid these efforts, per Seoul Money Brokerage Services.
"The government's stabilization measures are likely to remain significant till the end of the year," said Baek Seok-hyun, economist at Shinhan Bank's S&T Center, predicting a year-end close in the 1,400-1,420 range.
Woori Bank's Lim Hwan-yeol sees year-end around 1,440, driven by export firms likely releasing dollar reserves. Year-end rates benchmark foreign-currency liabilities in financial statements; the 1997 crisis peak was 1,695 won.
