South Korea Exports Surge 43.9 Percent on AI Chip Demand
South Korea recorded a record 43.9 percent increase in October export volume driven by strong global demand for artificial intelligence semiconductors and chipmaking equipment.
The Bank of Korea reported that South Korea's export volume grew at a record pace in October, with the export volume index soaring 43.9 percent compared to the previous year. This surge marks the 12th consecutive month of growth since November 2025, primarily fueled by robust shipments of semiconductors and chipmaking equipment used in artificial intelligence infrastructure.
Specific sectors saw significant gains, with exports for computers, electronic and optical devices rising 51.2 percent, while machinery and semiconductor manufacturing equipment increased by 38.7 percent. High chip prices further accelerated the trend, pushing the export value index up by 107.6 percent.
Import volume and value indices also grew by 14.9 percent and 36.6 percent, respectively. However, the net terms-of-trade index for goods rose 21.3 percent because export prices grew faster than import prices.
