A customer pays his purchase with South Korean 1,000 won banknotes at the Cheongyangni Market in Seoul, South Korea, on Friday, Sept. 13, 2024. South Korea’s inflation slowed more than expected to the central bank’s target, opening the door for monetary officials to conduct a policy pivot as soon as next month if home prices also show signs of easing.
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CNBC TV1829-01-2026, 16:30

South Korean Won Hits Decade-Long Rally Amid AI Boom, Bond Index Inclusion

  • The South Korean won has achieved its longest winning streak in over 13 years, strengthening for a seventh consecutive session.
  • The currency appreciated by 0.8% to 1,425.25 per dollar on Thursday, January 28, becoming Asia's top performer.
  • Investor enthusiasm for artificial intelligence and Samsung Electronics' strong earnings are driving demand for the won and boosting the export sector.
  • South Korea's upcoming inclusion in FTSE Russell's World Government Bond Index, starting in April, is attracting significant interest in Korean debt.
  • Analysts predict further strengthening of the won, potentially reaching 1,385 per dollar by late 2026, driven by strong fundamentals and market reforms.

Why It Matters: The South Korean won is experiencing its longest rally in over a decade, fueled by AI enthusiasm and bond index inclusion.

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