ADB Raises South Korea 2026 Growth Forecast to 3.2% on AI Chip Exports

The Asian Development Bank raised South Korea's 2026 GDP growth forecast to 3.2%, up 0.6 points from July and 1.3 points from April, citing AI semiconductor exports and recovering private consumption. The 2027 forecast was lifted from 2.0% to 2.3%, while inflation was kept at 2.7%.

• 2026 growth forecast raised to 3.2% from 2.6% in July and 1.9% in April
• Drivers: AI semiconductor exports and gradual recovery in private consumption
• 2027 forecast lifted from 2.0% to 2.3%
• Inflation held at 2.7%; risks include U.S. tariffs and geopolitical tensions