Bank of Korea Governor Lee Ju-yeol says rumors of an economic crisis looming in April are exaggerated and unlikely.

He made the comments at a news conference following the central bank's decision to keep key rates unchanged for an eighth straight month Thursday.

Lee said does not think there is a high possibility of the United States designating South Korea as a currency manipulator in April.

That possible designation, and the approaching expiration date of some 440 billion won worth of Daewoo Shipbuilding corporate bonds, have fueled worries in the market.