31/12/2011: Replacement of 1 Lek coin
The 1 lek coin was demonetized and replaced by a banknote. The decision was made due to the high cost of producing the coin.
27/10/2008: Global Financial Crisis
The Korean Won faced significant volatility during the global financial crisis, as global markets tumbled and investor confidence wavered.
08/02/2000: Introduction of new banknotes and coins
A new series of banknotes and coins were introduced, featuring enhanced security features and updated designs.
01/01/1998: Establishment of IMF Program
South Korea agreed to an International Monetary Fund (IMF) bailout package, which stabilized the value of the Korean Won and initiated economic reforms.
03/12/1997: Asian Financial Crisis
The Korean Won experienced a sharp depreciation during the Asian Financial Crisis, causing severe economic hardships and requiring international assistance.
02/03/1997: Collapse of pyramid schemes
The collapse of pyramid schemes in Albania caused a severe economic crisis, resulting in hyperinflation and a significant devaluation of the lek.
26/06/1992: Transition to a market economy
Albania transitioned to a market economy, leading to a significant depreciation of the lek. The exchange rate changed to 1 lek = 9.3 old lek.
27/02/1980: Declaration of Martial Law
Amidst political turmoil, President Chun Doo-hwan declared martial law, causing economic instability and impacting the value of the Korean Won.
01/10/1965: Introduction of the new lek
A new series of banknotes and coins were introduced, marking the transition to the new lek. The exchange rate was set at 1 new lek = 10 old lek.
22/06/1962: Introduction of the Hwan
To combat inflation, the South Korean government introduced the Hwan as the new currency, replacing the old Korean Won.
27/07/1953: Armistice Agreement
Following the Korean War, the Armistice Agreement was signed, stabilizing the region and aiding in the recovery of the Korean Won.
22/12/1947: Albania becomes a communist state
Following the establishment of a communist regime in Albania, the currency underwent a major devaluation, with the exchange rate changing to 1 lek = 12.5 old lek.
15/08/1945: Liberation from Japanese Rule
Upon the end of Japanese colonial rule, the Korean Won was introduced as the official currency of South Korea.
01/09/1926: Introduction of the Albanian lek
The lek was introduced as the official currency of Albania, replacing the previous currency, the Turkish lira. The exchange rate was set at 1 lek = 35 Turkish lira.