South Korea 2025 Export Record Hits Landmark $709.7 Billion for the First Time
South Korea's annual exports reached a record $709.7 billion in 2025, surpassing the $700 billion mark for the first time. Semiconductor and AI demand were key drivers.
A new chapter in global trade history has begun as South Korea’s annual exports surged past the $700 billion threshold. Government data released by the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Resources confirms that South Korea 2025 export record reached an all-time high of $709.7 billion, up 3.8% from the previous year.
AI Chips and Diversification Drive the $700 Billion Era
The explosive growth of artificial intelligence (AI) data centers fueled a 22.2% leap in semiconductor exports, totaling a record $173.4 billion. Despite intensifying trade protectionism, automobile exports also hit a new peak of $72 billion. With imports slightly dipping to $631.7 billion, the nation secured a trade surplus of $78 billion—the largest since 2017.
Navigating the Trump Tariff Effect and Global Shifts
The geopolitical landscape presented significant challenges. Exports to the United States fell 3.8% to $122.9 billion as the Donald Trump administration's sweeping tariff measures took hold. Shipments to China also declined by 1.7%. However, a strategic shift toward the ASEAN region and India—which saw record shipments of $19.2 billion—compensated for the losses in traditional markets.
Investors should monitor the impact of ongoing U.S. tariffs on the automotive and machinery sectors. Global oversupply in steel and petrochemicals remains a significant risk for profit margins in 2026.
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