Barclays economist Bum Ki Son said the recent sharp won appreciation could
weaken South Korea's favorable terms of trade and increase pressure on
exporters, with non-tech firms likely hardest hit due to lower margins and
greater FX sensitivity. He said the export boost from earlier won weakness
should begin fading in September. USD/KRW has fallen about 5% over the past
month to 1,370.83, the lowest since July 2025. Official data showed August
exports remained strong, led by semiconductors.