SEOUL, KOREA - The consumer sentiment index, the measure showing consumers' psychological attitude toward current economic conditions, has surpassed the benchmark level in January.

 

According to a report "January 2014 Consumer Trend Survey" published by the Bank of Korea on January 27, the January consumer sentiment index was 109, up 2 points from December last year, the highest level for 23 months since February 2011 when the index was 109.

 

The consumer sentiment index over and above 100 implies there are more households who see the present economic conditions positively than otherwise. Since December 2012 when the index was 99, it has climbed up steadily, maintaining over the 100 level.

 

The current livelihood index that compares the present situation with that six months ago has gained one point to 93 from the same month last year. The livelihood outlook index that foretells situation six months ahead has risen two point to 101. The household income outlook index has also increased one point to 103. The consumer spending outlook index soared three points to 112. As for the job opportunity outlook index remained at the same level at 94.