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Chip demand powers South Korea exports to nearly 40-year high
01 Apr 2026

South Korea has witnessed a massive surge in its exports, with a whopping 48.3% increase in March.

The country's outbound shipments reached an all-time high of $86.13 billion, surpassing market expectations and marking the strongest growth since August 1988.

The jump is mainly attributed to the booming demand for semiconductors driven by artificial intelligence (AI) technology.

Exports of semiconductors skyrocketed 151%
Trade boost

The surge in South Korea's exports is mainly due to a strong recovery in the semiconductor cycle, fueled by robust AI-related demand.

Exports of semiconductors alone skyrocketed 151.4% year-on-year to a record $32.83 billion.

This was aided by rising memory chip prices and strong server demand linked to AI investments, highlighting the country's key role in global tech supply chains.

Broader manufacturing boost
Economic impact

The boom in semiconductor exports has also boosted broader manufacturing activity in South Korea.

A separate survey showed factory output expanding at its fastest pace in over four years, although overseas orders are showing signs of strain amid geopolitical tensions.

Other sectors had a mixed performance with petroleum product exports rising 54.9% due to higher global oil prices after conflict broke out in West Asia on February 28.

Geopolitical tensions impact trade
Trade disruption

The ongoing conflict in West Asia has started to distort South Korea's trade patterns, with shipments to the region plummeting by 49.1%.

This highlights how geopolitical instability can immediately affect demand and logistics.

Concerns have also been raised over potential disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz, a key chokepoint for global oil shipments.

Government support needed
Government action

In light of these challenges, South Korea's Industry Minister Kim Jung-kwan has warned that uncertainty around export conditions is increasing.

He said the government would step up support for companies affected by supply-chain disruptions.

Despite these challenges, exports to key markets remained strong with shipments to China surging 64.2%, and those to the US and European Union rising 47.1% and 19.3%, respectively.