South Korea’s Export Boom Fuels Economic Growth Amid Global Trade Tensions
South Korea's economy is gaining momentum as November exports surged 13.3% year-over-year, driven by robust demand for semiconductors and automobiles. The customs office reported an 8.4% increase in headline exports, with semiconductor shipments jumping nearly 39% due to AI and data center demand.
Automobile exports rebounded sharply, rising 14%, while the trade surplus hit $9.7 billion. Economist Lim Hye Youn noted the strength in DRAM and high-value chips but warned of potential volatility if semiconductor performance falters.