South Korea’s exports continued to surge in September, driven by AI-related
global demand lifting semiconductor shipments; working-day adjusted exports rose
104.9% YoY, Korea Customs Service said on Thursday. Cumulative exports for
Jan–Sep reached $814.5bn, the first time above $800bn and a record. The
semiconductor boom is also boosting public finances: Seoul expects record tax
revenue of 478.6 trillion won (~$353bn) in the year, up 28% vs 2025, citing
chipmakers’ profits, special dividends, a buoyant stock market and consumer
recovery. Strong exports are improving the external balance and could support
won appreciation, help curb imported inflation and give policymakers greater
flexibility around the timing of the next rate move.
