Exports from Korea in May set a record high for the month. Strong semiconductor shipments lifted overall exports above $80 billion for a third straight month.
According to the "final figures for imports and exports in May 2026" released by the Korea Customs Service on the 15th, exports last month rose 53.4% from a year earlier to $87.8 billion. Imports increased 20.7% to $60.8 billion. The trade balance posted a surplus of $27.0 billion, marking a surplus for the 16th consecutive month.
In particular, semiconductor exports surged 167.7% to $37.29 billion, topping $30 billion for a third straight month and leading the overall increase in exports. Computer exports also jumped 243.9% to $4.39 billion, extending strong results. Petroleum products ($5.44 billion, +49.1%), ships ($2.51 billion, +15.8%), wireless communication devices ($1.5 billion, +8.3%), and steel products ($4.04 billion, +6.6%) also rose across the board.
By contrast, passenger car exports fell 7.5% from a year earlier to $5.49 billion. Exports to the largest market, the United States (-2.8%), and the United Kingdom (-14.1%) declined. Auto parts also decreased 7.8%.
By country, exports to China increased 80.8% to $18.89 billion, rising for seven consecutive months. Exports to the United States also grew 59.4% to $16.0 billion, extending a positive trend for six straight months. Vietnam (61.4%), Taiwan (76.9%), and Australia (91.9%) also saw large gains. In contrast, exports to the Middle East fell 7.5% to $1.27 billion.