The Bank of Korea (BOK) kept its benchmark interest rate unchanged at 2.5% on Thursday, marking its third consecutive on-hold decision as the central bank seeks to contain housing risks and a weakening won. The decision follows a series of cuts between late 2024 and May this year that lowered the rate by a full percentage point. The Monetary Policy Board said growth is improving on strong exports while inflation remains near its 2% target, but warned that household debt and property market imbalances require close monitoring.

The won traded around 1,430 won per U.S. dollar following the announcement, while