South Korea’s consumer confidence weakened sharply in April 2026, slipping below the key 100-point threshold for the first time in recent months. The composite consumer sentiment index fell to 99.2 in April from 107.0 in March 2026, according to data updated on 22 April 2026.
The drop from March’s relatively optimistic reading of 107.0 to a sub-100 level suggests households have turned more cautious about the economic outlook and their personal financial situation. A reading above 100 typically indicates that optimists outnumber pessimists, while a reading below 100 reflects a predominance of negative sentiment.
The April decline may signal softer consumer spending ahead, an important consideration for policymakers and markets monitoring the strength and sustainability of South Korea’s domestic demand. Investors and analysts are likely to watch upcoming data closely to assess whether this deterioration in sentiment is temporary or the start of a more entrenched slowdown in consumer confidence.
