[The Bank of Korea States It Will Maintain a Stance of Interest Rate Hikes in the Future] Odaily Planet Daily News – The Monetary Policy Committee of the Bank of Korea stated on the 28th that it will continue to maintain a stance of interest rate hikes in the future, taking into account factors such as inflation and financial stability. The Bank of Korea had previously announced its first interest rate hike in three and a half years. The committee explained the background of this rate hike, stating: 'With economic growth driven by exports and investment strengthening, inflation is expected to remain above the target level for a considerable period, and risks to financial stability still persist.' The committee expects that 'supported by a robust semiconductor boom, exports and investment will continue to maintain high growth. As income conditions improve, driving an expansion in consumption recovery, the economy is expected to sustain steady growth. This year’s economic growth rate is projected to significantly exceed the May forecast (2.6%).' Regarding prices, the committee anticipates that inflation will remain high for a considerable period. The committee also assessed that the volatility of the Korean won against the US dollar has increased, housing-related loans and other loans have risen simultaneously, leading to a significant increase in household loans, and the upward trend in housing prices in the Seoul metropolitan area has further expanded. Considering the above factors, the committee stated, 'It is currently deemed necessary to continue maintaining a monetary policy stance of interest rate hikes.' (Jin10)