South Korea Records Historic Trade Surplus in April 2026

South Korea recorded a trade surplus of $23.77 billion in April 2026, marking 15 consecutive months of surpluses. Total exports reached $85.89 billion, a 48% year-on-year increase and the second-highest monthly figure on record. This growth was fueled by a semiconductor supercycle, with chip exports surging 173.5% to $31.9 billion to meet AI demand, while computer exports rose 515.8% to $4.08 billion.

Kim Jung-kwan, the Industry Minister, attributed these results to supply chain diversification. The government noted substantial export increases to China, the United States, and ASEAN. However, auto exports fell 5.5% to $6.17 billion due to U.S. production expansion and shipping disruptions in the Middle East.

External conflicts impacted other sectors. Exports to the Middle East dropped 25.1% because of ongoing tensions between the U.S. and Iran. Additionally, while petroleum product exports rose in value to $5.11 billion due to higher oil prices, shipment volumes decreased following government restrictions implemented in mid-March to stabilize domestic fuel markets.