October Exports Hit All-Time High, Boosted by Semiconductors and Ships

South Korea's exports in October 2025 reached an all-time high, driven by strong performances in the semiconductor and shipbuilding industries. Total exports amounted to $59.57 billion, a 3.6% increase compared to the same period last year. Notably, the average daily export value reached a record high of $2.98 billion.

Surge in Semiconductor and Ship Exports

Semiconductor exports rose to $15.73 billion, a 25.4% increase year-on-year. Ship exports surged by 131.2% to $4.69 billion, leading the overall export growth.

Export Status by Major Item

Computer exports increased by 1.7% to $980 million. Petroleum product exports showed an increase of 12.7%, reaching $3.83 billion.

Decreased Imports and Trade Surplus

October imports amounted to $53.52 billion, a 1.5% decrease compared to the same month last year. Due to increased exports and decreased imports, the trade balance recorded a surplus of $6.06 billion.