Bank of Korea (BOK) Governor Rhee Chang-yong expressed concern about the current won-dollar exchange rate, calling the situation a crisis.

Rhee, however, told reporters during a briefing at the BOK on Wednesday that current circumstances differ from those of a traditional financial crisis.

The central bank chief said South Korea's financial institutions and solvency are not currently at risk, and that some profit when the currency depreciates because the country is a net external creditor.

He added, however, that the exchange rate significantly impacts prices and that there is a distinct internal divide between those who benefit and those who incur losses.

The governor said the current level is a cause for concern when considering social harmony and polarization.