South Korea has reported a significant increase in its exports, driven largely by surging global demand for semiconductor chips — particularly those used in artificial intelligence (AI) servers and data infrastructure. In the first 20 days of February, exports reached about $43.5 billion, marking the highest volume recorded for that period on record. When adjusted for fewer working days compared with the same period last year, the average daily export volume surged by 47.3 % year-on-year, underscoring robust outbound trade momentum.
The gains were primarily powered by a sharp jump in semiconductor shipments, which more than doubled (up around 134 %) and accounted for over one-third of total exports. This boom reflects strong overseas demand for chips used in AI, cloud computing and other advanced technology sectors, helping to offset slower exports in some other areas.
Other categories such as computer peripherals and petrochemical products also contributed to overall export growth, although certain sectors like automobile exports and auto parts saw declines during the same period. Despite these mixed trends, the trade surplus remained positive, with merchandise imports rising at a slower pace than exports.
Economists and trade analysts say South Korea’s export performance highlights the central role of its semiconductor industry in the global supply chain — particularly as AI-related technology investments continue to expand worldwide. The strong export figures are seen as a sign of resilience in the face of broader trade uncertainties and shifting global demand patterns.
