The South Korean won fell to a fresh 17-year low against the U.S. dollar on Tuesday, June 30, 2026, as overseas investors continued to sell local stocks, according to market data. The currency closed at 1,450.2 won per dollar, its weakest level since the 1997-1998 Asian financial crisis.
The decline was driven by sustained foreign fund outflows from the Korean stock market, with net selling by foreign investors reaching $1.2 billion in June alone, according to the Korea Exchange. Analysts cited concerns over global trade tensions and a strengthening U.S. dollar as key factors.
The Bank of Korea has intervened in the foreign exchange market to stabilize the won, but the currency has lost over 10% against the dollar this year. The government has also announced measures to curb speculative trading, though their impact remains limited.
Market participants are closely watching for any further policy responses from the central bank or finance ministry, as the weak won could fuel inflation by raising import costs for energy and raw materials.
