Central banks, like the Bank of Korea, typically prioritize price stability and inflation control, but in South Korea, policymakers also have to address the issue of high household debt. References to household debt are frequently considered in the BOK’s monetary policy decisions, with Governor Rhee Chang Yong acknowledging criticisms about the cautious approach taken in setting the Base Rate. The BOK is concerned about the negative impact of excessive household debt on economic growth, as it weakens spending power, distorts capital allocation, and leads to an overinvestment in non-productive sectors.
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