South Korea Inflation Rate — 2026 CPI Data, Trend & Outlook
South Korea's inflation rate was 3.14% in May 2026, up from 2.57% the previous month. A year earlier it stood at 1.90%.
South Korea's inflation rate stands at 3.14% as of May 2026. Over the latest readings, the inflation rate has moved within a band of -0.43% to 6.33%. The most recent figure of 3.14% is up from 2.57% a month earlier, and is 1.24% higher than a year ago.
The trend
Among the 193 economies tracked on this platform, South Korea ranks #108 on inflation rate by latest value. It rose from 2.57% in the previous month, and compares with a year-earlier 1.90%.
What's driving it
Inflation is shaped by energy and food prices, the exchange rate, wage growth and the stance of monetary policy; central banks lift interest rates to cool it and ease when it falls back toward target.
Recent readings
| Period | Inflation rate |
|---|---|
| May 2026 | 3.14% |
| Apr 2026 | 2.57% |
| Mar 2026 | 2.16% |
| Feb 2026 | 2.00% |
| Jan 2026 | 2.01% |
| Dec 2025 | 2.31% |
| Nov 2025 | 2.45% |
| Oct 2025 | 2.38% |
Data: Source: OECD (terms permit extract/distribute, incl. commercial, with citation). Figures carry an effective date; confirm with the source before relying on them.
Frequently asked questions
What Is the Inflation Rate in South Korea Right Now (2026)?
South Korea's inflation rate was 3.14% in May 2026, up from 2.57% the previous month. A year earlier it stood at 1.90%.
Is the inflation rate rising or falling in South Korea?
It rose in the latest reading — 3.14% in May 2026 versus 2.57% a month earlier. Year on year it is higher.
What is inflation rate?
It measures how fast consumer prices are rising, measured by the consumer price index (CPI).