South Korea’s exports surged 105.4% year-on-year during the first 20 days of October 2026, reaching a record .6 billion, driven by strong global demand for semiconductors and growing investment in artificial intelligence (AI). Preliminary data released by the Korea Customs Service on Wednesday showed that chip shipments led the increase.The export growth highlights South Korea’s strengthening position in the global semiconductor market, as demand for advanced chips continues to rise alongside AI infrastructure development. Average daily exports increased 65.9% to a record .74 billion after adjusting for working days. Key HighlightsSouth Korea’s exports rose 105.4% to .6 billion during October 1–20.Semiconductor exports jumped 222.5% to .5 billion.Chips accounted for 44.7% of total exports during the period.Imports increased 42.8% to .1 billion, resulting in a trade surplus of .5 billion.Exports to China and the United States increased sharply. Semiconductor Shipments Drive Export GrowthSemiconductor exports emerged as the main driver of South Korea’s export surge, climbing 222.5% year-on-year to .5 billion. The figure marked a record for the first 20 days of October, reflecting strong demand for chips used in AI systems, data centres and other technology applications.Semiconductors accounted for 44.7% of the country’s total exports, up 16.2 percentage points from the same period a year earlier. The increase underscores the growing importance of the chip industry to South Korea’s export performance. Exports Rise Across Major IndustriesGrowth extended beyond semiconductors, with shipments of petroleum products increasing 68.3% to .94 billion. Automobile exports rose 40.9% to .35 billion, while steel exports climbed 42.6% to .58 billion.The figures indicate that several major export industries contributed to the overall increase, although semiconductors remained the dominant source of growth during the period. Shipments to China and the US JumpSouth Korea’s exports to China rose 154.4% to .6 billion, while shipments to the United States increased 154.9% to .7 billion. Exports to Vietnam and the European Union also recorded strong growth, reflecting increased shipments across several major trading markets. Trade Surplus Widens as Exports Outpace ImportsImports rose 42.8% year-on-year to .1 billion during the first 20 days of October, leaving South Korea with a trade surplus of .5 billion. The stronger export performance comes amid sustained demand for semiconductors and technology-related products.Looking ahead, continued investment in AI infrastructure and global demand for advanced chips are likely to remain important factors shaping South Korea’s export outlook.
