Bank of Korea Governor Lee Ju-yeol says the central bank will continue its monetary easing policies to maintain the trend of economic recovery next year. In his New Year’s message on Thursday, Lee said he expects the economy to recover gradually with weak inflation pressure. But he stressed the need to review the flow of macroeconomics while factoring in potential risks of a growth slowdown and higher inflation.

The BOK chief said that the nation’s economic performance was unsatisfactory this year, noting that economic growth was dull and the inflation rate was lower than the government’s goal. Lee also warned against hidden obstacles that could hamper a smooth economic recovery next year. He said restructuring and reform are necessary for the nation to improve its economic fundamentals and increase its growth potential.