South Korea will be added to FTSE Russell's World Government Bond Index (WGBI) starting in November 2025, a move anticipated to attract significant foreign investment. This inclusion comes after the country was placed on the watch list two years ago and reflects improvements in market accessibility, which will be reclassified from level 1 to 2. FTSE Russell highlighted various initiatives by South Korean authorities, such as extending trading hours and enhancing foreign exchange access, as key factors in meeting the criteria for inclusion. The WGBI, valued at $29 trillion, is a highly regarded benchmark that could bring in approximately 90 trillion won ($67 billion) in foreign investments. South Korean officials welcomed the decision, viewing it as a testament to global investors' confidence in the country's economic policies. Finance Minister Choi Sang-mok emphasized that this recognition underscores the solid fundamentals and fiscal soundness of the South Korean economy. He also noted the government's commitment to ongoing policy reviews and improved communication with international investors to ensure stable inclusion in the WGBI. With this development, South Korea joins India as the only top 10 economies not previously included in the bond index, although India is set to join the FTSE Emerging Markets Government Bond Index in September 2025.