Korea’s Exports Hit Record $71.4 Billion as Chip Shipments Soar

South Korea’s exports from September 1 to 20 rose 78.3% year-on-year to a record $71.4 billion, surpassing the previous high of $61.7 billion. The main driver was semiconductor shipments, which surged 259.4% to $34.12 billion (47.8% of total exports). The trade surplus was $23 billion.

• Exports for Sept 1–20: $71.4 billion, up 78.3% year-on-year
• Chip exports rose 259.4% to $34.12 billion — a period record
• Shipments to Taiwan +128.5%, US +118.0%, China +113.8%
• Trade surplus for the period — $23 billion