S Korea Consumer Mood Softens Amid Economic Concerns

South Korea’s Composite Consumer Sentiment Index stood at 110.1 in September 2025, down from 111.4 in August. Consumer sentiment regarding current living standards remained steady at 96, while expectations for the future outlook fell slightly to 100. Sentiment about future household income held at 102, and expectations for future household spending dipped one point to 110. Consumers’ views on current domestic economic conditions declined by two points to 91, and expectations for future domestic economic conditions fell three points to 97. Overall, the data suggest a modest softening in confidence across both current and future economic assessments. Inflation expectations remained stable, with the one-year, three-year, and five-year anticipated rates all at 2.5%. Despite slight declines in some measures, consumer sentiment continues to reflect generally positive confidence in the economy.