Republic of Korea: bonds

The bond market in the Republic of Korea is one of the largest markets in Asia. Various reforms have led to its rapid development, including gradual market liberalization. All fixed-income instruments are available to foreign investors. The Government continues to issue treasury bonds on a regular basis with maturities of 3, 5, and 10 years. The 3-year bond is the most liquid. However, due to increased issuance of 5-year maturities in 2008, it is also now included as a benchmark. In Korea a corporate issuer should be rated by at least two credit rating agencies.

Bonds in the Republic of Korea can be classified into two main types: government and corporate. The government bond market consists of treasury bonds, National Housing Bonds, and Seoul Metropolitan Subway Bonds. It also includes the central bank's monetary stabilization bonds, as well as financial debentures issued by the Korea Development Bank. Government bonds are the most traded asset class and form the basis for benchmark yields.