Overview
- Headline consumer prices rose 2.4% year on year, the fastest pace since July 2024 and above a Reuters poll forecast of 2.1%.
- Core inflation picked up to 2.2% year on year, while the overall index increased 0.3% from the prior month.
- Statistics Office officials said the rise was broad-based, led by higher costs for utilities, fresh food and services.
- Analysts say the upside surprise reduces the likelihood of near-term rate cuts and points to policy staying restrictive for longer.
- Market watchers note the data could support the won and lift short-term yields.