South Korea’s exports hit record high on AI boom

South Korea’s exports reached a monthly record in September, surging 83.5% year-on-year to $120.9 billion, driven by high demand for AI-related chips. Chip shipments accounted for nearly half of exports, increasing over 260% to $60.3 billion. Total exports from January to September exceeded all of 2025, reaching $814.5 billion, with a trade surplus of $49.85 billion. Trade Minister Kim Jeong-kwan highlighted the resilience of South Korea’s industries despite global protectionism and Middle East tensions.