South Korea’s consumer price index rose 2.9% year-over-year in September 2026, easing from 3.1% in August but remaining above the Bank of Korea’s 2% target, with core inflation at 2.8% and petroleum products up 14.8% amid Middle East tensions. Year-to-date readings have fluctuated between 2.0% and 3.2%, and officials expect October inflation near 3% as cost pressures broaden into processed foods, industrial goods, and services. Recent rate hikes to 3.00% reflect the central bank’s focus on containing demand-side and pass-through effects, while the finance ministry flags upside risks to its 2.6% full-year forecast. With three months remaining and geopolitical and energy uncertainties elevated, trader positioning on the Polymarket reflects these persistent price dynamics.