Survey: South Korea's February inflation may remain close to central bank target

Golden Ten Data reported on March 4 that overall inflation in South Korea may remain close to the central bank's 2% target level in February. The median forecast from a survey of 13 economists by The Wall Street Journal shows that the core consumer price index rose 2.1% year-on-year, compared to a 2.0% increase in January. The survey indicates that CPI is expected to rise 0.4% month-on-month in February, consistent with the growth rate in January. Citi economist Jin-Wook Kim said: "Prices for energy and other industrial products, including processed foods, may decline compared to last month, which could offset inflationary pressure from agricultural products. On the other hand, due to seasonal factors related to the New Year and the start of a new year, prices for a wide range of personal services may increase."